As electric vehicle adoption grows, so does the demand for portable EV chargers—especially for road trips, emergencies, or homes without Level 2 charging setups. Fortunately, in 2025, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a reliable, compact charging solution.
In this guide, we break down the best portable EV chargers under $150, comparing plug types, portability, charging speed, and real-world user satisfaction.
Why Choose a Portable EV Charger?
A portable EV charger offers peace of mind, especially when:
- You don’t have access to a home wall charger
- You’re visiting friends or family without a charger
- You want a backup in case public chargers are full or down
- You travel and need to top off anywhere with an outlet
Most budget portable EV chargers plug into a standard 110V household outlet (Level 1), but some offer NEMA 14-50 or 5-15 plugs for faster Level 2 charging when available.
What to Look For
Before you buy, keep an eye on:
- Plug compatibility: J1772 (most non-Tesla), CCS (DC fast charging – rare in this price), or Tesla adapters.
- Amperage: Higher amps = faster charge (look for at least 12–16A).
- Cable length: Longer cables offer more placement flexibility.
- Portability: Compact form factor and a travel bag help on the go.
- Safety: UL or ETL certification, waterproofing, and overheat protection are must-haves.
Top 5 Portable EV Chargers Under $150
1. Lectron Level 1 EV Charger (16 Amp, J1772)
Price: ~$139
Pros:
- Universal J1772 connector fits nearly all EVs
- Compact and lightweight with a 21-foot cable
- LED status lights for charge monitoring
Cons: - Slower Level 1 speeds (~4 miles of range per hour)
2. Megear Level 2 Portable EV Charger (16 Amp, NEMA 6-20 Plug)
Price: ~$145
Pros:
- Faster Level 2 charging if you have a 240V outlet
- Rugged build with IP55 waterproof rating
- Integrated carry case included
Cons: - Slightly bulky for glove box storage
3. Mustart Level 1 Portable EVSE (15 Amp, J1772)
Price: ~$129
Pros:
- Reliable and well-reviewed brand
- Long 25-foot cable
- High compatibility with all J1772 EVs
Cons: - Not suitable for faster Level 2 charging
4. Splitvolt Portable EV Charger (16 Amp, NEMA 14-30)
Price: ~$149
Pros:
- Excellent choice for homes with dryer outlets
- 240V Level 2 speeds without hardwiring
- Lightweight and simple setup
Cons: - May require adapter for non-14-30 outlets
5. EvoCharge Level 1 Charger (12 Amp, UL Certified)
Price: ~$115
Pros:
- Great for occasional top-offs or emergencies
- UL listed for safety
- Very compact and durable build
Cons: - One of the slower options available
Comparison Table
| Charger | Amps | Plug Type | Charging Level | Cable Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectron Level 1 | 16A | J1772 | Level 1 | 21 ft | $139 |
| Megear Level 2 | 16A | NEMA 6-20 | Level 2 | 25 ft | $145 |
| Mustart Level 1 | 15A | J1772 | Level 1 | 25 ft | $129 |
| Splitvolt Portable | 16A | NEMA 14-30 | Level 2 | 16 ft | $149 |
| EvoCharge Level 1 | 12A | J1772 | Level 1 | 18 ft | $115 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a portable charger as my primary home charger?
Yes, especially if you’re not driving far each day. Many EV owners use a Level 1 charger at home and only upgrade to Level 2 if they need faster overnight charging.
Q2: Are these compatible with Tesla?
Only with a J1772 to Tesla adapter, which is often included with Tesla vehicles. If you own a Tesla, double-check your connector needs.
Q3: Is it safe to leave a portable charger plugged in overnight?
Yes, as long as it’s UL or ETL certified. Most come with built-in protection for overvoltage, overheating, and short-circuiting.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
- Best Home Chargers for Tesla Model 3
- How Long Does It Take to Charge a Tesla at Home?
- Are Used Electric Cars Worth It?
Final Thoughts
If you’re driving an EV in 2025, owning a portable EV charger under $150 is one of the smartest low-cost upgrades you can make. Whether you’re powering up at home, at work, or on a trip, these chargers give you control, convenience, and peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Before buying, just make sure the plug type matches your EV, and that you’re aware of the charging speed limitations of Level 1 vs Level 2.
For under $150, these picks offer unbeatable value—and a lot more freedom on the road.