Both the J-1772 and NACS are Level 2 EV charging protocol standards in North America. They ensure interface compatibility and stable current transmission during charging. However, the NACS was established by Tesla and has certain limitations in compatibility. Yet, it has advantages in other aspects compared to the J-1772. To choose the best one, you need to consider multiple factors. Here are the specific differences between the two.
1. Differences between J-1772 and NACS
1.1 Application Scene
The J-1772 charging protocol connector is suitable for Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers and is mainly used for home charging. In contrast, the NACS charging protocol connector is ideal for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (DC fast) EV chargers and is mainly used for commercial electricity.
1.2 Charging Rate
The input voltage of the J-1772 charging protocol connector is about 120V to 239V. The input voltage of the NACS charging protocol connector is about 490V. As a result, the NACS charging protocol has a greater advantage in output power compared to the J-1772. In other words, the charging rate of the J-1772 is not as good as that of the NACS. However, this should be considered based on specific situations.
1.3 Charging Cost
Compared with the NACS charging protocol connector, the J-1772 charging protocol connector has better compatibility. It has also established a more complete supply chain, and its current input is lower with lower power. Therefore, the J-1772 charging protocol is more cost-effective in terms of charging costs.
1.4 Compatibility
The J-1772 charging protocol connector was established earlier and is compatible with a wider range of EV chargers. On the other hand, the NACS charging protocol connector was established by Tesla and is only suitable for Tesla electric vehicles. So, you need to consider the brand and type of your electric vehicle when deciding which charging protocol is suitable for you.
2. Common Questions about J-1772 and NACS
2.1 Is the J-1772 charging protocol connector suitable for Tesla cars?
The J-1772 charging protocol connector can be used for Tesla car chargers. However, an adapter needs to be installed between the J-1772 charging protocol connector and the charger before charging. After installing the adapter, the performance of the charging protocol connector and the car charger cannot be fully released to a certain extent. Similarly, the NACS charging protocol connector can be used for non-Tesla car chargers after installing an adapter. But there are certain safety risks involved.
2.2 Will the NACS charging protocol connector replace the J-1772 after solving the compatibility problem?
Even after solving the compatibility problem, the NACS charging protocol connector won’t gradually replace the J-1772. First of all, this would take a long time. The NACS still needs to solve other technical and cost-related problems to completely replace the J-1772. So, you don’t need to worry about this. The J-1772 charging protocol connector is still the best choice for non-Tesla car users with the best cost – cost-effectiveness.
3. Conclusion
When choosing between the J-1772 and NACS charging protocol connectors, you need to consider multiple factors such as compatibility, charging cost, charging rate, and application scene. After making your choice, the most important thing is to choose a manufacturer with high-quality products, good performance, and reliable after-sales service. If you are considering installation, you can consult brands like JMHPOWER. These are well-known brands in the production of EV charging protocol connectors and have a good reputation around the world.
