As electric vehicles (EVs) become mainstream, many drivers ask one key question:
“What is a portable EV charger, and do I need one?”
Portable EV chargers can be a great addition to your EV toolkit – whether you want a reliable travel charger, a backup for public chargers, or a simple plug-in solution before installing a full home wallbox. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What is a portable EV charger?
A portable EV charger is a plug-in charging cable that allows an EV to charge from a standard UK socket (normally a 3-pin plug). They are designed to be:
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Compact and travel-friendly
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Easy to plug into any suitable outlet
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Compatible with most EVs and plug-in hybrids
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Useful as a backup or secondary charger
Portable units are typically rated from ~2.3kW up to ~3.7kW when used on a 13A domestic socket. They are not a replacement for a dedicated home wallbox but are ideal for travel and convenience charging.
How portable EV chargers work
Portable EV chargers are usually mode 2 charging cables – meaning they include the safety and control electronics inside the unit itself, allowing them to draw from a regular plug socket.
Key things to know:
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Most portable chargers operate on 230V single phase (standard UK supply).
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Output is often 2.3kW or 3kW, depending on plug rating.
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They are ideal for overnight charging or when away from dedicated chargers.
Benefits of a portable charger
Portable EV chargers are useful because they:
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Let you charge almost anywhere there’s a plug socket
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Are simple and universal (fit Type 2 inlets)
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Serve as a backup when other chargers aren’t available
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Can be taken on trips or used at rentals
Portable chargers are especially handy if:
✔ You haven’t installed a home wallbox yet
✔ You’re using someone else’s garage or driveway
✔ You’re travelling and want a reliable fallback
Recommended portable EV chargers (UK)
Here are some well-reviewed portable EV charging options available on Amazon UK — great for travel or as a secondary charging solution:
Best Overall Portable Chargers
Type 2 Portable EV Home Charger – Premium portable unit with strong reviews, ideal for frequent use and travel.
Ila Tech Portable EV Charging Station – Solid mid-range charger with robust design for daily use and trips.
VOLTNGO Portable EV Charger – Great value portable EV charger with good durability and performance.
Best Value & Simpler Portable Chargers
Aposol Portable EV Charger – Affordable portable charger that still gets the job done for many EVs.
GONEO Portable EV Charger 5M – Compact and basic cable with protections built in, perfect for occasional charging.
Tera Portable EV Charger Type 2 – Good budget portable charging option with reliable performance.
Vorsprung Type 2 to 3 Pin UK Plug Portable EV Charger – Highly rated portable charger with 3-pin UK plug and Type 2 connection.
Portable charger buying tips
When choosing a portable EV charger, consider:
1. Power Rating
Most portable chargers are limited to 2.3–3.3kW on a standard 13A socket. This is fine for overnight charging but slower than a home wallbox.
2. Plug Type
Ensure the charger has a UK 3-pin plug and Type 2 connector compatible with most EVs.
3. Safety Features
Look for units with built-in protection against:
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Overcurrent
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Earth fault
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Overheating
These are important when using regular sockets.
4. Cable Length
A longer cable (5–10 metres) gives flexibility when plugging in at awkward spots.
5. Durability
An IP-rated (weatherproof) charger is better for outdoor or garage use.
Important Safety Considerations
Portable EV chargers are designed for intermittent charging from standard UK sockets. However:
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Domestic socket circuits are often not rated for prolonged high current — check your socket condition before use.
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Avoid using extension leads unless they are heavy-duty and rated for continuous load.
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Consider a dedicated home wallbox if you charge frequently — it’s safer and faster.
Portable vs Home Wallbox Chargers
Portable chargers are a great fallback, but if you regularly rely on them:
| Feature | Portable Charger | Home Wallbox |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Lower (~2.3–3kW) | Higher (7kW+) |
| Portability | Excellent | Not portable |
| Installation | None | Requires electrician |
| Daily Use | Occasional | Ideal |
For most EV owners, a portable charger is useful plus a home wallbox for daily needs.
Final thoughts
A portable EV charger is a practical and affordable solution for:
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Out-of-town stays
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Hotels with basic outlets
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Occasional charging before installing a wallbox
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Travel backups
They are simple, compatible with most EVs, and a great way to keep topped up when dedicated chargers aren’t available – just don’t expect the same power as a wallbox or public AC/DC charger.