Electric vehicle owners who use Tesla charging equipment may be wondering about the differences between the Gen2 Mobile Connector and the Corded Mobile Connector.
While both can charge a Tesla, there are important differences to consider, particularly when it comes to charging speed and convenience.
In this article, we will explore these differences in detail to help Tesla owners determine which option is best for their charging needs.
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a short summary of the article:
The Corded Mobile Connector charges faster than the Gen2 Mobile Connector, but is more expensive and less portable. The Corded Mobile Connector is also only compatible with NEMA 14-50 outlets, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector can be used with a wider range of outlets.
Here are all the differences between both.
Gen2 vs. Corded Mobile Connector: Specs at a Glance
Take a look at the key differences between both. We’ll talk about it more in the next sections.
Gen2 Mobile Connector:
- Maximum charging rate: 32 amps
- Maximum charging power: 7.68 kW
- Voltage: 100-240 volt AC single-phase
- Compatible outlets: NEMA 5-15, NEMA 14-50 (with included adapters), and other outlets with additional adapters (sold separately)
- Cable length: 20 ft (6m)
- Weight: 5.2 lbs (2.4 kg)
- Price: $275
- Portability: Comes with a NEMA 5-15 adapter and a NEMA 14-50 adapter, and a storage bag
- Other features: None
Corded Mobile Connector:
- Maximum charging rate: 40 amps
- Maximum charging power: 9.6 kW
- Voltage: 100-240 volt AC single-phase
- Compatible outlets: NEMA 14-50 (fixed plug only)
- Cable length: 20 ft (6m)
- Weight: 5.2 lbs (2.4 kg)
- Price: $520
- Portability: Less portable than Gen2 Mobile Connector due to fixed plug
- Other features: Cable holder and built-in LED light
Charging Speed
The charging speed of a Corded Mobile Connector with a fixed 14-50 plug is faster than that of a Gen2 Mobile Connector. The Corded Mobile Connector can charge at up to 40 amps, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector can charge at up to 32 amps.
This means that the Corded Mobile Connector can charge at a maximum rate of 9.6 kW, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector can charge at a maximum rate of 7.68 kW.
However, it’s worth noting that the difference in charging speed may not be noticeable for most Tesla Model 3 and Model Y owners.
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Price
The Corded Mobile Connector is more expensive than the Gen2 Mobile Connector. The Corded Mobile Connector costs $520, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector costs $275 (the exact prices might vary).
The Corded Mobile Connector includes a fixed NEMA 14-50 plug, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector includes a NEMA 5-15 adapter, a NEMA 14-50 adapter, and a storage bag.
However, if you already have a NEMA 14-50 outlet, you can purchase a NEMA 14-50 adapter for the Gen2 Mobile Connector for an additional $40, which would make it functionally equivalent to the Corded Mobile Connector for a lower price.
Also read: Is it Ok to Leave Tesla Charger Plugged in for Long? (the Facts)
Compatibility
The Corded Mobile Connector is only compatible with a NEMA 14-50 outlet, while the Gen2 Mobile Connector can be used with a wider range of outlets.
In addition to the NEMA 5-15 and NEMA 14-50 adapters that come with the Gen2 Mobile Connector, Tesla also sells adapters for other types of outlets, such as the TT-30 and the 14-30.
This means that the Gen2 Mobile Connector can be used in more locations than the Corded Mobile Connector.
Portability
The Gen2 Mobile Connector is more portable than the Corded Mobile Connector. The Gen2 Mobile Connector comes with a NEMA 5-15 adapter and a NEMA 14-50 adapter, which means that it can be used with a wider range of outlets than the Corded Mobile Connector.
Additionally, the Gen2 Mobile Connector comes with a storage bag, which makes it easier to transport than the Corded Mobile Connector.
The Corded Mobile Connector, on the other hand, has a fixed NEMA 14-50 plug, which makes it less versatile and less portable.
Other Features
The Corded Mobile Connector has a few features that the Gen2 Mobile Connector does not have. For example, the Corded Mobile Connector has a cable holder that can be used to wrap up the cable when it’s not in use.
The Corded Mobile Connector also has a built-in LED light that can be used to illuminate the charging port at night.
Second, it’s important to note that the Gen2 Mobile Connector has a built-in safety feature that can detect when it’s connected to a low-quality outlet and adjust the charging rate to prevent damage to the vehicle or charging equipment.
This feature is not present in the Corded Mobile Connector.
However, are these features worth the higher price of the Corded Mobile Connector? For most Tesla owners not.
Gen2 vs Corded Mobile Connector: Which Option is Better?
Deciding which option is better, the Gen2 or the Corded Mobile Connector, ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you have a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y and plan on using the mobile connector primarily at home, then the Corded Mobile Connector may be the better choice for you.
With a charging rate of up to 40 amps, it can charge your vehicle at a faster rate than the Gen2 Mobile Connector’s maximum of 32 amps.
Additionally, the Corded Mobile Connector comes with a fixed NEMA 14-50 plug, which eliminates the need for additional adapters and can provide a more secure and stable connection.
On the other hand, if you plan on using the mobile connector in various locations or with different types of outlets, then the Gen2 Mobile Connector may be the better option.
It is more versatile, with the ability to use multiple adapters, and is also significantly less expensive than the Corded Mobile Connector.
It’s important to note that if you’re looking for the fastest charging speeds possible, neither the Corded Mobile Connector nor the Gen2 Mobile Connector may be the best option.
Tesla’s Wall Connector can charge your vehicle at up to 48 amps, offering the fastest charging speeds available for Tesla vehicles. Ultimately, your choice of mobile connector will depend on your charging needs and preferences.