Best Smart Chargers for Home Use

Imagine waking up every morning to a fully charged electric car — no detours, no queues, and no worries. That’s the everyday magic of home charging. But if you’re still using a basic plug or outdated charger, you’re missing out on the benefits that smart EV chargers bring to the table.

Smart chargers don’t just refill your car’s battery — they integrate with your lifestyle, your electricity tariff, and even your solar panels. They’re intelligent, connected, and future-ready. Whether you’re a new EV owner or looking to upgrade your setup, choosing the right home charging device can make a huge difference in cost, convenience, and sustainability.

In this post, we’ll review the best smart EV chargers currently available in the UK, explain what to look for, and share real-world insights to help you choose the right EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) for your home.

What Is a Smart EV Charger?

More Than Just a Plug

A smart charger is a wall-mounted or pedestal charging device with built-in connectivity and programmable features. Unlike basic chargers, it lets you:

• Schedule charging to take advantage of off-peak rates
• Monitor usage through apps or online dashboards
• Receive firmware updates
• Optimise power use, especially if you’ve got solar or a battery system

Some even integrate with your smart home or electric provider to automatically charge when it’s cheapest or cleanest.

Why You Should Choose a Smart Charger

Cost Control

With the right tariff (like Octopus Go), you can cut your charging cost to as little as 7.5p per kWh — but only if your charger can schedule intelligently.

Energy Efficiency

Some chargers let you prioritise solar or grid use and avoid peak-hour strain, which is better for the planet and your bill.

Safety and Updates

Smart EVSEs can detect faults, send alerts, and receive software improvements over time — keeping you safer and up to date.

Remote Control

Whether you’re at work, on holiday, or on the sofa, you can start, stop, or monitor charging with a tap on your phone.

Key Features to Look For in a Smart EV Charger

1. Charging Power: Most homes support 7.4kW (single-phase); some may allow 22kW with a three-phase supply.
2. Tethered vs Untethered:
• Tethered has a fixed cable — convenient but less tidy.
• Untethered uses a removable cable — cleaner look and more flexibility.
3. App Functionality: Real-time data, usage history, smart scheduling, and tariff syncing.
4. Solar Integration: Charge your EV directly from your solar panels if available.
5. Build and Warranty: Weatherproof casing (IP54+), durable construction, and at least a 3-year warranty.

Best Smart EV Chargers for Home Use (UK 2025 Edition)

1. MyEnergi Zappi v2.1

Best for solar users

• Power: 7kW (22kW version also available)
• Features: Solar integration, dynamic load balancing, scheduled charging
• App: MyEnergi app with usage tracking and remote access
• Price: ~£999 installed (after grants)

Why it stands out: Built in the UK, Zappi is ideal if you have (or plan to install) solar panels. Based on your surplus solar production, it lets you choose between eco, eco+, and fast modes.

2. Wallbox Pulsar Max

Best for compact design and high functionality

• Power: 7.4kW or 22kW
• Features: Power-sharing, app-based control, smart scheduling
• App: Wallbox app with Google Assistant/Alexa compatibility
• Price: ~£949 installed

Why it stands out: One of the smallest chargers on the market — ideal for tight driveways or minimalist setups. Its app is responsive and user-friendly.

3. Ohme Home Pro

Best for tariff-based charging

• Power: 7.4kW
• Features: Automatic price-based scheduling, integrates with Octopus/OVO
• App: Ohme app with energy supplier sync and charging plans
• Price: ~£949 installed

Why it stands out: Tailor-made for use with smart tariffs. It automatically adjusts charging to the cheapest hours — ideal if you’re on a flexible energy plan.

4. Hypervolt Home 3 Pro

Best for home automation fans

• Power: 7kW
• Features: Solar integration, Alexa voice control, LED lighting options
• App: Hypervolt app with charge logs and remote control
• Price: ~£999 installed

Why it stands out: Sleek design with vibrant LEDs and support for voice commands. Also made in the UK, and now supports solar charging as standard.

5. Pod Point Solo 3

Best for wide compatibility and brand trust

• Power: 7kW or 22kW
• Features: Load balancing, simple scheduling
• App: Pod Point app with remote monitoring
• Price: ~£899 installed

Why it stands out: Backed by EDF and widely installed nationwide. It doesn’t have every feature, but it’s reliable, simple to use, and well-supported.

6. Andersen A2

Best for premium design lovers

• Power: 7kW or 22kW
• Features: Hidden cable storage, solar compatibility
• App: Kønnect+ with remote access and usage stats
• Price: From £1,200+ installed

Why it stands out: Beautifully designed with a hidden cable bay, making it perfect for high-end properties and driveway aesthetics.

Smart Charger Comparison Table

Real-World Anecdote: Meet Liz, the Smart Charger Convert

Liz, a teacher from Birmingham, had her Zappi installed last year after adding solar panels to her terraced home.

“I had no idea how much it would save me. I use the eco+ mode to charge from the sun during weekends and the Ohme app to track my usage. It feels like I’ve turned my house into its own little power station.”

She estimates her EV costs less than £100 per year to charge — a fraction of her old diesel spend.

Tips for a Smooth Installation

• Get a home energy audit: Your installer can assess fuse box capacity and cable routing before the quote.
• Pick a qualified OZEV installer: This ensures grant eligibility and safety compliance.
• Ask about upgrades: If you may add a second EV later, choose a unit that supports load balancing.
• Keep it sheltered: Most units are weatherproof, but placing it under a canopy or porch prolongs its lifespan.

Smart Charging Is a Smart Investment

Choosing the right smart EV charger for your home is about more than speed — it’s about flexibility, control, and peace of mind. Whether you’re driven by savings, sustainability, or simply convenience, today’s home charging devices have evolved into powerful, intelligent tools.

From solar-savvy Zappi to tariff-smart Ohme or design-forward Andersen, there’s a charger that fits your lifestyle, your car, and your future.