If you’re researching home EV chargers, you’ll quickly come across two main types: tethered and untethered. Many homeowners prefer the convenience of a tethered charger, but others prioritise flexibility, which is where the untethered EV charger comes in.
But what is an untethered EV charger, and why should you consider one for your home or workplace? In this guide, we explain what an untethered EV charger is, why some EV drivers prefer it, the benefits it offers, and whether it may be the right choice for your home.
What is an untethered EV charger?
An untethered EV charger (also known as a socket-only EV charger) is a home charging unit without a permanently attached cable. Instead of a fixed cable, the charger features a universal charging socket, normally Type 2 in the UK, and you simply plug in your own EV charging cable whenever you want to charge.
In other words:
- You provide the cable.
- The unit provides the charging socket.
- You enjoy complete freedom over which cable you use.
This gives you far more flexibility compared to a tethered charger, where the cable is permanently built into the unit.
Untethered vs. tethered EV chargers: what is a tethered EV charger?
In contrast to an untethered EV charger, a tethered EV charger is a charging unit that has a cable permanently attached. It all comes as one, and the cable cannot be removed or detached. This provides a fixed, ready-to-use unit, but it can be an issue if you have multiple cars or choose to change your car to a model that’s no longer compatible.
While both untethered and tethered EV chargers do the same essential role of charging your electric vehicle, a tethered version comes with a cable included, but an untethered version does not, allowing for more flexibility.
How does an untethered EV charger work?
Using an untethered charger is simple:
- Plug one end of your portable EV cable into the charger’s socket.
- Plug the other end into your vehicle.
- Charging begins automatically (or via an app, depending on the model).
The main difference is that you control the cable (its length, type and storage) rather than relying on what comes attached to the unit, which allows for greater versatility.
Benefits of an untethered EV charger
Untethered EV chargers offer several important benefits, especially for drivers who want maximum flexibility. Here are the key benefits:
- Compatible with all EVs - Whether your household has multiple electric vehicles, or you change cars regularly, an untethered charger ensures you’re never limited by connector type. You can swap cables depending on the vehicle, making your charger future-proof if you ever choose to upgrade or change your EV model.
- Offers a cleaner, minimalist look - Without a cable permanently hanging on the wall, the charging unit looks more discreet and tidier. This is ideal for modern homes where aesthetics matter or where the charger is visible from the street.
- Greater flexibility in cable length - With an untethered charger, you choose the cable length that suits your parking arrangement, whether that’s 5 metres, 10 metres or more. A tethered charger only comes with a cable fitted that can’t be removed, and often, it only comes with a standard 5m option.
- Easier to replace or upgrade cables - If your cable becomes damaged, switching to a new one is simple and inexpensive. With a tethered charger, a damaged cable may require professional repair or replacement of the entire unit.
- Perfect for multi-EV households - If your home has multiple EVs, potentially with different charging speeds or connectors, an untethered charger allows each car to use its own cable. This avoids compatibility issues entirely.
Are untethered EV chargers cheaper?
Generally, untethered chargers cost roughly the same as tethered chargers, but can be ever so slightly cheaper, although prices vary based on:
- brand
- smart features
- power rating (typically 7kW for UK homes)
- cable length (purchased separately)
The main difference is:
- Tethered charger = cable included
- Untethered charger = cable purchased separately
This can make untethered options slightly cheaper upfront, but you’ll need to buy a good-quality EV charging cable, which will be an additional cost.
If you are considering purchasing an untethered EV charger for your home or workplace, you can read more about the average price you can expect to pay here. EV chargers usually range from around £800 to £1200, but you may be able to apply for an OZEV grant, which can reduce the cost. An OZEV grant, part of a UK-government scheme, helps with the cost of buying and installing EV chargers at homes or businesses.
The grant can provide up to 75% of the cost, up to a maximum of £350, off the price of a single charge point socket. To read more about UK EV grants, read our blog and get in touch with Next Gen Charge to find out more about whether you’re eligible for an OZEV grant for your EV charger.
Untethered EV chargers available
If you’re in the market for an untethered EV charger, below are some examples of untethered EV chargers that are available to buy now. Next Gen Charge supply a range of EV chargers, many of which are available both untethered and tethered.
Next Gen Nova: Our premium, UK-compliant, own-brand EV chargers are built with performance, safety and energy efficiency in mind. Fully compatible with solar systems, smart energy tariffs, and dynamic load management, it can be app-controlled, too, which gives you total control over how and when you charge. OZEV grant eligible, with a 7-year warranty included. £899 for the untethered version, which comes with installation from our expert team included.
Ohme e-Pod: This compact, app-controlled, untethered EV charger is compatible with your type 1 or type 2 cable. Featuring dynamic smart charging, energy tariff integration, solar charging compatibility, home power balancing and scheduled charging. Great for budget-conscious customers who want a smart, flexible charging option. £949 with installation included.
Get in touch to find out more about our EV chargers and our team can help you pick the right EV charger for your home, office and car model.
Why choose an untethered EV charger from Next Gen Charge?
At Next Gen Charge, we install a range of high-quality untethered EV chargers designed for reliability, convenience and long-term flexibility.
Choosing Next Gen Charge means you’ll benefit from:
- Expert guidance on the best charger for your EV.
- Professional, compliant installation.
- A wide range of EV chargers with options for smart charging, solar integration and load balancing.
- Full support before and after installation.
- OZEV-approved installers – we can help you get apply for an OZEV grant.
We’ll assess your property, electrical setup and parking position to ensure you choose the right charger for you, whether tethered or untethered. If you’re still wondering ‘what is an untethered EV charger or which is the best choice for you, our team is here to help. Contact Next Gen Charge today to get a personalised EV charger installation quote.