If you own a Tesla, there are two ways you could charge your electric vehicle on the go.
you’re free to either use a Destination Charger or a Supercharger.
But what’s the difference between these two chargers, and which is best for you?
And should you prefer one over the other?
Let’s find out.
What Is a Tesla Destination Charger?
Image Credit: Jakob Härter/Flickr
A Tesla Destination charger is a wall-mounted charging unit, as shown in the image above.
These chargers usealternating current (AC)to supply power to your EV.
The best thing about Tesla Destination Chargers is that they’re basically free to use.
Alternatively, some locations may require that you are a paying customer to use the chargers.
However, this will only be offered to locations with six or more Destination Chargers.
There are almost 4,000 Tesla Destination Charging locations across the US and over 1,000 in the UK.
Tesla also provides a similar map for the UK and countries in the European Union.
What Is a Tesla Supercharger?
As the name suggests,Tesla Superchargerscan charge your vehicle at a much faster rate than Destination Chargers.
These chargers supply power straight to the EV battery viadirect current (DC).
There are varying versions of Tesla’s Superchargers, with the most recent being the V3 model.
This charger can offer a maximum power output of 480V (or 250 kW per hour).
In fact, you’re free to add up to 75 miles of range in just five minutes!
So, it’s undoubtedly the more convenient option over Destination Chargers.
However, unlike Destination Chargers, Tesla Superchargers are not free.
But there’s also no concrete price that customers must pay across the board.
In fact, Tesla Supercharger prices can vary from station to station, not just region to region.
It currently costs around $0.50/kWh in the US to charge an EV using a Supercharger.
But prices can fluctuate above or below this figure.
In California, for example, Tesla has hiked Supercharger prices multiple times.
At peak hours, customers could end up paying as much as $0.57/kWh.
In the UK, on the other hand, things are considerably pricier.
But you may be in luck here.
Any Tesla car bought before 2017 is entirely free to charge.
Yes, that’s even using a Supercharger.
If you live within a Supercharger-supported country, chances are that aTesla Supercharger is located near you.
Tesla also offers a similar map for customers residing in the UK and EU.
Alternatively, you’ve got the option to visitsupercharge.infoto view the global locations of Tesla Superchargers.
Destination vs. Superchargers: Which Is Better?
The answer to this question is very reliant on the circumstances.
Overall, the Tesla Supercharger is probably your best option when it comes to speed.
