Anker car chargers are portable charging devices made by Anker, a consumer electronics company, that let you charge your EV away from home using standard electrical outlets
Anker manufactures several types of EV chargers, ranging from small portable units that plug into 120-volt household outlets to larger wall-mounted chargers that require 240-volt installation. The portable models are designed for travel and emergency charging, while the wall-mounted versions are meant for regular home or workplace use. Anker chargers are not made by your vehicle manufacturer or a charging network — they are third-party hardware you purchase separately.
The main difference between Anker models comes down to power output and installation. A 120-volt portable charger adds roughly 2 to 3 miles of range per hour of charging, making it slow but useful for overnight charging or as a backup. A 240-volt wall charger adds 10 to 30 miles per hour depending on your vehicle and the charger's wattage, and requires an electrician to install a dedicated circuit in your home or garage.
Key Takeaways
- Anker makes both portable 120-volt chargers and wall-mounted 240-volt chargers, each serving different charging needs and locations.
- Portable Anker chargers are slower but work anywhere you have a standard outlet, while wall chargers require professional installation but charge much faster.
- Before buying any Anker charger, confirm your vehicle's charging port type and maximum charging speed to may support compatibility.
- Wall-mounted chargers may may have access to for federal tax credits or local rebates, which can offset part of the purchase and installation cost.
- Anker chargers work independently of charging networks and do not require a subscription to operate at home or at private locations.
Portable versus wall-mounted Anker chargers
Portable Anker chargers plug into a standard 120-volt outlet — the kind you find in any home, garage, or parking lot. These units are compact, travel-friendly, and require no installation. They typically add 2 to 5 miles of range per hour, so they are best for overnight charging, topping up between short trips, or keeping in your vehicle as a backup. Common portable models include the Anker 621 and Anker 757, which weigh between 3 and 5 pounds and fit in a car trunk.
Wall-mounted chargers require a 240-volt circuit, which means hiring a licensed electrician to run wiring and install a dedicated outlet in your garage, driveway, or workplace. These chargers are faster — typically adding 10 to 30 miles per hour — and are designed for regular daily charging. Wall chargers stay in one location and plug into the hardwired outlet. Installation costs vary widely depending on how far the electrical panel is from where you want the charger, but typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars.
Choose a portable charger if you travel frequently, rent your home, or want a backup charging method. Choose a wall charger if you own your home, have a garage or driveway, and do most of your charging at one location.
Checking compatibility with your vehicle
Anker chargers work with most modern EVs, but you need to confirm two things: your vehicle's charging port type and its maximum charging speed. Most North American EVs use either a Tesla connector (also called NACS) or a J1772 connector. Anker makes chargers with both connector types, but you must buy the one that matches your vehicle's port.
Your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website will list your charging port type. If you are unsure, look at the charging port on your vehicle — the connector shape is distinctive. Tesla vehicles built before late 2023 use the Tesla connector; most other brands use J1772. Some newer Tesla vehicles and other brands are switching to NACS, so check your specific model year.
The second step is confirming your vehicle's maximum charging speed, measured in kilowatts (kW). A 120-volt charger delivers about 1.4 kW, which is well below any vehicle's maximum, so compatibility is automatic. For 240-volt chargers, Anker models typically range from 7 kW to 11 kW. Your vehicle's manual will state its maximum charging speed — if your vehicle maxes out at 7 kW, buying an 11 kW charger will not charge faster, though it will cost more.
Installation and electrical requirements for wall chargers
Installing an Anker wall charger requires a licensed electrician in most states. The electrician will assess your home's electrical panel, run a dedicated circuit to the charger location, and install a 240-volt outlet or hardwired connection. This process typically takes a few hours to a full day. The electrician will also pull any required permits and may support the installation meets local electrical codes.
Before scheduling installation, confirm that your home's electrical service can support a new 240-volt circuit. Most modern homes have 200-amp service, which is sufficient, but older homes with 100-amp service may need an upgrade — a separate and expensive job. Your electrician can assess this during an initial consultation.
The location of your charger affects installation cost. A charger in a garage close to the electrical panel is cheaper than one on the far side of a driveway. Some homeowners install chargers in a garage, while others prefer a weatherproof outdoor pedestal mount. Discuss location options with your electrician before work begins, as moving the charger later is costly.
Cost, rebates, and tax credits
Anker portable chargers typically cost between $300 and $600, depending on the model and power output. Wall-mounted chargers range from $400 to $1,200 for the hardware alone, plus installation labor. Installation labor typically adds $500 to $2,500 depending on the distance from your electrical panel and local electrician rates.
The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $500 for home EV charger installation, though the credit covers the charger and installation combined, not each separately. To claim it, the charger must be installed at your primary residence, and you must file the credit on your federal tax return. Some states and local utilities also offer rebates or discounts on charger purchases or installation — check your state's energy office or your utility company's website for current programs.
Portable chargers do not currently may have access to for federal tax credits, but wall chargers do if installed at your home. If you are considering a wall charger, research available rebates before purchasing, as some programs require you to buy from a pre-approved list or register before installation.
How Anker chargers connect to your vehicle and charging networks
Anker chargers are standalone devices — they do not connect to a charging network or require a subscription to work at home. You plug the charger into your vehicle's port, and charging begins. There is no app, no account, and no monthly fee for home charging with an Anker charger.
Some Anker wall chargers include optional smart features, such as scheduling charging to run during off-peak electricity hours or monitoring usage through a mobile app. These features are optional and do not require a subscription. If you want to use your Anker charger at a public charging station or workplace, you may need to contact the location's operator, as public stations often have their own networks and payment systems.
Anker chargers are not part of major charging networks like Electrify America or EVgo. If you want to charge away from home at public stations, you will need a separate membership or payment method with those networks. Your Anker charger is for home, workplace, or private location charging only.
Maintenance and durability
Anker chargers require minimal maintenance. Portable chargers should be stored in a dry location and kept away from extreme heat or cold when not in use. Wall chargers are weatherproof and designed for outdoor use, but you should inspect the connector and cable periodically for damage or corrosion, especially in coastal or humid areas.
Most Anker chargers come with a warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, typically for one to three years depending on the model. Check the warranty terms when you purchase, as coverage varies. If your charger stops working within the warranty period, contact Anker's customer service with proof of purchase.
Anker chargers are built to handle thousands of charging cycles. The cable and connector are the parts most likely to wear over time, but replacements are available. If you notice slower charging, a loose connection, or visible damage, stop using the charger and contact Anker or a may have access to technician before attempting repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an Anker charger with any electric vehicle?
Most modern EVs work with Anker chargers, but you must buy the model with the correct connector type for your vehicle — either J1772 or Tesla/NACS. Check your vehicle's manual or look at your charging port to confirm which type you need before purchasing.
Do I need an electrician to install an Anker wall charger?
Yes, in most states a licensed electrician must install a wall charger to may support it meets electrical codes and safety standards. Some states allow homeowners to do the work themselves, but this is rare and not recommended unless you have electrical experience.
How long does it take to charge my EV with an Anker portable charger?
A 120-volt portable charger adds roughly 2 to 5 miles of range per hour, so charging a fully depleted battery can take 20 to 40 hours. These chargers are best for overnight charging or topping up between short trips, not for rapid charging.
Will my electric bill go up significantly if I charge at home?
Charging at home costs less than gasoline but does increase your electricity use. The exact cost depends on your local electricity rates and how much you drive. Most EV owners find home charging costs one-third to one-half the price of gasoline for the same distance.
Can I return an Anker charger if it does not work with my vehicle?
Most retailers offer returns within 30 days if the charger is unused. If you have already installed a wall charger and it does not work with your vehicle, you may not be able to return it. Confirm compatibility before purchasing to avoid this problem.