Best 40 amp portable EV charger? Lectron J1772 in-depth test

The Lectron Level 2 J1772 Charger (WiFi Version) is a powerhouse designed for EV owners who want to move beyond the slow "trickle" of Level 1 charging. Built as a versatile solution for modern electric vehicle owners, this portable station is engineered to deliver reliable power both at home and on the go. 

Delivering up to 40 Amps of power via a NEMA 14-50 plug, this station can charge your vehicle up to seven times faster than a standard wall outlet. 

This significant speed upgrade ensures that even vehicles with larger battery capacities can easily achieve a full charge overnight. The standout feature is its WiFi connectivity, allowing you to monitor your charging status, schedule sessions during off-peak electricity hours, and track energy usage directly from your smartphone.

Beyond its smart capabilities, the charger features a rugged build, with the J1772 handle and cable constructed to withstand high usage across various weather conditions. 

Main specifications

• Voltage: 240V
• Amperage: 40 Amp
• Power rating: 9.6 kW
• Plug type: NEMA 14-50
• Connector: J1772 (Compatible with most North American EVs; Tesla requires adapter)
• Cable length: 16 ft
• Connectivity: WiFi-enabled for App control
• Rating: Weatherproof for indoor/outdoor use
• Certifications: Energy Star, ETL, FCC, UL 2251 (handle)

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Blazing speed: The 40-amp output significantly reduces charging time, often providing a full charge overnight for even the largest EV batteries. 

Smart scheduling: Use the WiFi app to charge when electricity rates are lowest, effectively paying for the charger over time through utility savings. 

Portability: Unlike hardwired stations, this uses a NEMA 14-50 plug, meaning you can take it with you if you move or go on a road trip to a location with an RV hookup. 

Rugged build: The J1772 handle and cable are built to withstand high usage and various weather conditions. 

Reasons to avoid

Short cable length: At 16 feet, it is shorter than the industry standard (usually 20–25 ft), which might be a dealbreaker if your outlet is far from your car's charging port. 

Finicky WiFi setup: Some users report that the initial app syncing process can be finicky depending on your home router's signal strength in the garage. 

Plug requirement: Requires a dedicated 240V NEMA 14-50 outlet, meaning professional electrician installation adds to the total cost if you do not already have one.