Buyer's guide

Tesla Mobile Connector vs a portable charger: which should you get?

Plenty of Tesla owners want a second cable: one for the garage, one for the boot. Here's how the options compare.

The short answer

Teslas sold in Australia use the standard Type 2 inlet, so any RCM-registered Type 2 portable charger works with them. Tesla's Mobile Connector is a good charger with swappable adapters designed for it; a dedicated portable charger is a simple alternative or a second cable for the boot. On a 10 A power point both add about 13 km of range per hour; the plug, not the brand, sets the speed.

  • Second cable for the boot: the SEVR 10A portable charger, so the home cable stays plugged in.
  • Using Tesla's adapters? They're designed for the Mobile Connector, which detects them. Don't use generic adapters on any charger.
  • Faster at home without a Wall Connector: a dedicated 15 A outlet and the EVSE Australia 15A portable charger (coming soon).
  • Works on other EVs too: a Type 2 portable charger isn't tied to one brand of car.
Side by side

How they compare

Tesla Mobile ConnectorSEVR 10A portableEVSE Australia 15A portable
Works withTeslas (Type 2 in Australia)Any Type 2 EV, Tesla includedAny Type 2 EV, Tesla included
On a 10 A power pointYes, with the 10 A adapterYes, genuine 10 A plugNo (15 A plug)
On a 15 A outletWith Tesla's 15 A adapterYes, at 10 A speedYes, 15 A
Range per hour~13 km (10 A) / ~19 km (15 A)~13 km~19 km
PriceCheck Tesla$183.99$239
Tesla specifications and pricing change; check Tesla's Australian shop for current details. Sparkie EV is not affiliated with Tesla.
Model guides

Charging times for your Tesla

Our pick

Chargers we recommend

No install needed

SEVR EV Portable Charger (10A)

Type 210 A max2.3 kW~13 km/h4.5 mIP66

A second cable for the boot. Genuine 10 A plug, 3-year warranty.

$183.99Lowest price in Australia · free shipping · 3-year warranty
Add to cart
Questions

Frequently asked

Can I use a non-Tesla portable charger on my Tesla?

Yes. Teslas sold in Australia use the Type 2 inlet, so any RCM-registered Type 2 portable charger fits.

Do new Teslas come with a charger in Australia?

It has varied over time and by model. Check your boot and delivery paperwork; many owners buy a second cable either way.

Is a portable charger as fast as the Tesla Mobile Connector?

On the same outlet, yes. Speed is set by the plug and current: about 2.3 kW on 10 A and 3.45 kW on 15 A.

Do I need a Tesla Wall Connector?

Not if you drive under about 150 km a day. A 15 A portable charger adds about 194 km overnight.

Keep reading