Lectron chargers are portable Level 2 and Level 1 home charging units made for Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles

Lectron manufactures compact, portable EV chargers that work with both Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles. Their main product line includes a Level 2 charger that plugs into a standard 240-volt outlet and a Level 1 charger that works with regular 120-volt household outlets. Unlike permanently installed home charging stations, Lectron chargers are designed to be moved between locations, which appeals to renters, people with multiple vehicles, or those who travel frequently.

The company's chargers come with different connector types — Tesla-specific connectors for Tesla owners and standard SAE J1772 connectors for other EV brands. Lectron chargers typically cost between $300 and $600 depending on the model and connector type, which is generally less expensive than hiring an electrician to install a permanent charging station.

Key Takeaways

  • Lectron Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and add roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, while Level 1 chargers use standard 120-volt outlets but charge much more slowly.
  • Portability is Lectron's main advantage — you can unplug and move the charger to a different location, making it useful for renters or people without dedicated parking.
  • You need to verify your vehicle's connector type before buying, since Lectron makes separate models for Tesla vehicles and for non-Tesla EVs using the J1772 standard.
  • Installation of a Level 2 charger may require an electrician to install a 240-volt outlet if one does not already exist at your location.
  • Lectron chargers work with most EV models, but checking compatibility with your specific vehicle before purchase prevents ordering the wrong connector type.

Level 2 versus Level 1: What charging speed you actually get

Lectron's Level 2 chargers are their primary product and deliver significantly faster charging than Level 1. A Level 2 charger connected to a 240-volt outlet typically adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, depending on your vehicle's onboard charger capacity. For a vehicle with a 60-kilowatt-hour battery, a full charge from empty takes roughly 8 to 10 hours with a Level 2 charger.

Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt household outlet and add only 2 to 5 miles of range per hour. A full charge with Level 1 can take 24 to 48 hours or longer. Lectron's Level 1 charger exists mainly as a backup option for travel or emergencies, not as a primary charging solution. If you have access to a 240-volt outlet at home or work, Level 2 is almost always the better choice.

The difference matters for daily use: Level 2 overnight charging covers most people's daily driving needs, while Level 1 requires planning around multi-day charging windows. If you drive more than 50 miles per day, Level 1 alone will not keep up with your usage.

Portability and installation requirements

Lectron chargers are portable in the sense that you can unplug them and move them, but "portable" does not mean installation-free. A Level 2 charger still needs a 240-volt outlet to function. If your location does not have one, you will need an electrician to install it — a cost that typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 depending on how far the outlet needs to be from your electrical panel and local labor rates.

The portability advantage applies mainly to people who rent, move frequently, or own multiple properties. You can take the charger with you when you move, rather than leaving behind an installed charging station. For apartment dwellers, Lectron's portability is useful only if your building has a 240-volt outlet in a parking space or common area — most apartment buildings do not.

Level 1 chargers require no installation beyond plugging into any standard outlet, which is why some people keep one in their vehicle for emergencies or travel. However, the slow charging speed makes it impractical for regular home charging.

Connector types and vehicle compatibility

Lectron makes separate charger models for different vehicle types, and buying the wrong connector type means the charger will not physically connect to your vehicle. Tesla vehicles use Tesla's proprietary connector, while nearly all other EV brands in North America use the SAE J1772 standard connector. Lectron offers models for both, but you must know which your vehicle uses before ordering.

If you own a Tesla, verify whether you have a Model 3/Y (which uses the Tesla connector) or an older model with a different connector. If you own a non-Tesla EV, the SAE J1772 connector is standard across Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, and most other brands. Some newer Tesla models can also accept J1772 connectors through an adapter, but checking your vehicle's manual or manufacturer website prevents ordering errors.

Lectron's website typically lists compatible vehicle models for each charger, but contacting the company or your vehicle's manufacturer directly removes any doubt before you purchase.

Cost comparison with other charging options

Lectron chargers cost less upfront than hiring an electrician to install a permanent Level 2 charging station, which often runs $1,500 to $3,000 total. A Lectron Level 2 charger alone costs $400 to $600, plus any electrical work needed to add a 240-volt outlet. If an outlet already exists, Lectron is significantly cheaper than a professionally installed unit.

Public charging networks like Tesla Superchargers, Electrify America, and Evgo offer faster charging but cost per kilowatt-hour and are designed for road trips rather than daily home charging. Home charging — whether Lectron or a permanent station — costs less per mile than public fast charging and is more convenient for overnight charging.

If you rent or move frequently, Lectron's lower cost and portability may outweigh the slower charging speed compared to a permanent installation. If you own your home and plan to stay for several years, a permanently installed charger may offer better long-term value and higher resale appeal.

What to check before buying a Lectron charger

Before purchasing, confirm three things: your vehicle's connector type, whether a 240-volt outlet exists at your charging location, and your vehicle's maximum charging capacity. Your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website lists the onboard charger capacity in kilowatts — this determines how fast the Lectron charger can actually charge your vehicle, regardless of the charger's rated output.

If you do not have a 240-volt outlet and need one installed, get an electrician's quote before buying the charger. Some electricians can install an outlet for $500 to $800 if the location is close to your electrical panel, but costs rise significantly if the outlet needs to be far from the panel or if your home's electrical service needs upgrading.

Check Lectron's current product lineup and reviews on the manufacturer's website and on independent EV charging forums. Charger models and features change, and newer versions may offer improvements over older models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Lectron charger in an apartment or rental?

Only if your building has a 240-volt outlet in a parking space or common area and your landlord permits it. Most apartments do not have 240-volt outlets in parking areas. A Level 1 charger works with any standard outlet, but charges very slowly — typically adding only 2 to 5 miles of range per hour. Check your lease and ask your landlord before installing or using any charger.

Will a Lectron charger work with my specific EV model?

Lectron makes models for Tesla vehicles and for non-Tesla EVs using the SAE J1772 connector. Check your vehicle's manual or Lectron's compatibility list to confirm the correct connector type. Ordering the wrong connector type means the charger will not physically connect to your vehicle.

How long does it take to fully charge with a Lectron Level 2 charger?

Charging time depends on your vehicle's battery size and onboard charger capacity. A typical EV with a 60-kilowatt-hour battery takes 8 to 10 hours to fully charge with a Level 2 charger. Smaller batteries charge faster, larger batteries take longer. Your vehicle's manual lists the onboard charger capacity in kilowatts, which determines the actual charging speed.

Do I need an electrician to install a Lectron charger?

You need an electrician only if you do not already have a 240-volt outlet at your charging location. If an outlet exists, you can plug in the Lectron charger yourself. If you need a new outlet installed, electrician costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 depending on distance from your electrical panel and local labor rates.

Can I take my Lectron charger with me if I move?

Yes, the charger itself is portable and can move with you. However, if you installed a new 240-volt outlet for it, that outlet stays with the building. You would need to arrange for a new outlet at your next location if one does not already exist.