NEMA 6-50 vs. 14-50 [Which one do you need?] | EV America (2023)

Byserbal aupdated

Recently, there has been an increase in interest in electric vehicles. As these vehicles continue to gain traction and skyrocket in popularity, you might be tempted to invest in one too. However, if you are new to electric vehicles (EVs), you may be wondering how to efficiently and safely power your EV.

When you buy an EV, you'll want to invest in onedomestic vehicle charging stationand a wall outlet. While there are a few different types of plugs and jacks on the market, you will find two types of plugs: NEMA 6-50 and 14-50.

These two plugs are the most popular among electric vehicle owners. Both plugs have their benefits and you can't go wrong either. However, the choice between NEMA 6-50 and 14-50 depends on your personal needs and preferences. In this guide, we'll show you the difference between these two plugs and the use you can get from each one.

NEMA 6-50 vs. 14-50 [Which one do you need?] | EV America (2)

What is the difference between a NEMA 6-50 and a 14-50 plug?

Recently, NEMA 14-50 output has gained popularity among homeowners. As the name suggests, the 14-50 provides up to a maximum of 50 amps of power, which is perfect and safe for charging your electric vehicle at home.

Today, the 14-50 is the recommended 50 amp plug as it is the most versatile option. On the other hand, while the NEMA 6-50 may not be as common as the 14-50, it is starting to gain ground as the more affordable option. In addition, this power cord is also easier to install as it is smaller and more flexible. However, as with the 14-50, 50 is the maximum amperage for the NEMA 6-50 plug. Then,What is the biggest difference between the two plugs?

The difference between a NEMA 6-50 and a 14-50 can be seen ifnote the two plugs next to each other. You will notice that the 6-50 is missing a neutral wire.. Neutral is the fourth hole at the bottom, just below the "hots".

So the difference between the NEMA 6-50 and the 14-50 is that the 6-50 has no neutral; there are only the two hot ones and the earth.

On the other hand, the 14-50 comes with a neutral. This means that the 14-50 has four holes while the 6-50 has only three. In short, the NEMA 14-50 plug has two hot points, one ground and one neutral, while the 6-50 has only two hot points and one ground.

(Video) NEMA 14-50 Buying Guide for Tesla EV Charger

The plug in front of the EV charging jack

Before we delve into using NEMA 6-50 and 14-50, we need to note the difference between EV charging plug and connector.

The plug connects to your wall outlet, while the EVcharging connectorconnects to your vehicle.

A residential electric vehicle charging station interfaces between the electricity flowing through your home and the battery management and charging system of an electric vehicle. It must be plugged in or plugged in using a heavy-duty outlet like you would use for dryers or ovens.

240 volts is the recommended voltage for powering an EV. Amperage (the unit of measurement for current) is also important. Today's most common plug-in domestic electric vehicle charging configuration uses a 50-amp, 240-volt outlet to safely power an electric vehicle.

Show me the best home chargers

What is a NEMA 14-50 plug used for?

The NEMA 14-50 is a 240 volt, 50 amp plug. In addition, a dedicated 24-volt circuitInstalled for higher power devicescan be connected as a 14-50 line. These high power devices includeelectric stoves and welders. He14-50 is also used for trailers and mobile homes..

Standard NEMA 14-50 plug is commonly used to charge electric vehicles. With the right EV charger, it can be used to fully recharge a modern EV battery in less than 8 hours.

NEMA 14-50 chargers are plug-in devices that plug into an electrical outlet. As mentioned above, the NEMA 14-50 standard specifies a maximum current of 50 amps. However, only 80% of this maximum power is allowed for continuous use. In other words, plugging in any charger will not output more than 40A to an EV.

NEMA 6-50 vs. 14-50 [Which one do you need?] | EV America (3)

CircleCord NEMA 14-50 plug for electric vehicle charging

$ 129,69

The CircleCord UL is rated up to 50 amps and has 25 feet of cable to run from your charging station to your EV. Rugged 6/3+8/1 gauge STW cable with cable organizer and storage pouch makes the CircleCord a quality charging extension cable for EV owners.

Buy now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

19/02/2023 20:45 |

(Video) 3 Mistakes I Made Installing a NEMA 14-50 Outlet

What is a 6-50 plug used for?

Like NEMA 14-50, theThe 6-50 plug is used for appliances that require more power, such as stoves and dryers.. In addition, this plug is still used for compressors, electric furnaces and generators; now routinely used for EV chargers as well.

The NEMA 6-50 EV Charger is one of the most powerful portable plug-in electric vehicle chargers on the market. It's even used by Tesla (although an adapter is required). This plug also fits all other electric vehicles. The 6-50 will charge your vehicle at 9.6 kWh, providing 30 to 35 miles of range per hour of charging. This is the fastest plug-in home charger available.

(Video) How to Install an Electric Vehicle Charger Receptacle

NEMA 6-50 vs. 14-50 [Which one do you need?] | EV America (4)

Extension cord and plug for Parkworld NEMA 6-50 EV charging station

A heavy-duty extension cord is rated for up to 50 amps with 25 feet of cord length to run from your charging station to your EV. HeSTW 6AWG/3C stranded wire extension cord is mAged with a galvanized copper terminal to effectively prevent surface oxidation.

buy on amazonCompre no Walmart

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Is it better to plug in or plug in an EV charger?

Wired charging stations are high-powered, continuous-use devices. If you choose this option, it mounts to the wall and includes approximately three feet of conduit and service cables running from it.

(Video) Installing an Outlet for Level 2 EV Charging

These wires connect to electrical panel wires in a junction box.In fact, wired units offer a wider range of charging speed and amperage options than plug-in units..

Wiring is also a great choice for outdoor use as it has proven to be resistant to rain, snow, sleet and ice. However, the downside to this option is that wired units are not portable. You will need to hire aelectricianto transport it. Additionally, wired charging stations can be more expensive due to the cost of the charger itself, its size, and the more labor-intensive installation.

As the name suggests, plug-in charging stations allow you to insert your EV Power Supply Equipment (EVSE) plug directly into a 240-volt outlet.

These outlets are not rated to allow you to regularly plug and unplug, so you should always leave the charging station switched on. If your home already has a 240-volt outlet, you can get a plug (NEMA 6-50 or 14-50) that will work with it.

With a 240-volt outlet, you can simply set up the charging station and start using it. If you don't have a 240-volt outlet, an electrician can install one that matches the type of plug selected. If you want to use a plug-in charging station outdoors, you'll need an "in-use" weatherproof cover installed over the 240-volt outlet and a GFCI breaker for it.

This is a good option if you need to charge outdoors but don't want to invest in a wired charging station. In general,Plug-in charging stations are less expensive and may be more convenient. However, they provide a lower current and are not suitable for outdoor use.

Deciding between a wired or plug-in EV charger really comes down to your personal preference and what will benefit you the most.Although a wired charging station is not portable and costs more, it does provide a solid connection and strong charging power. A plug-in charger is much more convenient, but has a slightly more limited use.

final thoughts

As you can already see, there are a variety of decisions to be made regarding your EV and your EV charging experience.

When it comes to choosing NEMA plugs, the 6-50 and 14-50 are safe, modern and powerful options that will allow you to charge your EV at home at a much faster rate.

The main deciding factor for most EV owners comes down to versatility, with NEMA 14-50 being the most common across the country. Now that you know which type suits your needs, you can make an informed purchase using the button below.

Check the latest price
(Video) TT-30P RV to NEMA 14-50 EV Charger adapter Plug

FAQs

What is NEMA 14 50 used for? ›

NEMA 14-50 (50A plug). This is commonly used for electric ovens and is often found in RV parks and campgrounds. It's installed onto a dedicated 50A circuit to match the rating of the plug.

Which is better NEMA 6-50 or NEMA 14 50? ›

NEMA 6-50 vs 14-50

The NEMA 14-50 outlet is the more popular and more versatile option of the two, thanks to its wide availability and ability to handle higher power devices. While the 6-50 outlet may not be as popular as the 14-50, it's starting to compete when it comes to versatility.

What breaker do I need for a NEMA 14 50? ›

The recommended home charging installation option for Tesla vehicles is a 240 volt NEMA 14-50 outlet. This outlet is commonly used for electric stoves and recreational vehicles. Installed with a 50 amp circuit breaker, this outlet enables a recharge rate of about 37 kilometers per hour.

What is the difference between NEMA 6-50 or 14 50 outlet? ›

The NEMA 14-50 outlet has two hots, a ground, and a neutral, and is considered to be safe for use with 40 amp Level 2 chargers. The NEMA 6-50 plug has a maximum amperage of 50 and is used for appliances that require a higher level of power, such as stoves and dryers.

What is the best outlet for EV charging? ›

The best 240V (Level 2) electrical outlets for electric car chargers are the NEMA 14-30, 14-50, 10-30, 10-50, and 6-50. Depending on the amperage, a Level 2 charger can provide around 20-30 miles of range per hour.

What plug is needed for electric car? ›

You can charge your electric car using standard 120 volt(V) home outlets (Level 1), 208-240V outlets like those used by your dryer (Level 2), or dedicated 480V+ public fast chargers (DC Fast Charging). The time it takes to charge using each of these three options depends on your drive and the size of the battery.

Should I install a NEMA 14-50 outlet? ›

Tesla does not recommend installing a new NEMA 14-50 outlet to charge your car. Installing a Tesla Wall Connector is the recommendation, and it is for a number of reasons. First off, the electrical code has changed to require all new NEMA 14-50 outlets be installed on GFCI breakers.

Can you plug a 6-50 plug into a 14-50 outlet? ›

INEMA 14 is hot-hot-neutral-ground whereas NEMA 6 is hot-hot-ground. If they had designed the 6-50 plug "correctly" it could plug into the hot-hot-ground ports of the 14-50 receptacle. As it is, it's just a tad too narrow to fit...

What is the best NEMA rating? ›

A NEMA 6- or 6P-rated enclosure ranks among the most durable and watertight protection that an electronic device can have. The 6 and 6P ratings offer all of the same weatherproofing features of a 4 or 4X enclosure, but add protection against: Occasional temporary submersion (Type 6)

What size breaker do I need for EV charging? ›

If you opt for a 32 amp EV charger, it is required to be installed on a 40 amp circuit — a common amount for a circuit to be able to carry. If you want the extra boost from a 40 amp EV charger, you will require a 50 amp circuit breaker to provide some buffer for additional appliances.

What size wire do I need for a Tesla charger? ›

If installing for maximum power, use minimum 6 AWG, 90° C-rated copper wire for conductors. NOTE: Upsize conductors if necessary. For sites with multiple Wall Connectors, each Wall Connector must have its own branch circuit with L1, L2/N, and Ground.

How many amps is a NEMA 6-50 outlet? ›

The NEMA 6-50 adapter will allow a Tesla to draw up to 32 amps (7.6 kW at 240 volts). Recharge speeds will vary between different models.

Does my Tesla come with a NEMA 14-50 adapter? ›

Every Tesla vehicle is delivered with a Mobile Connector and adapter to plug into a 240 volt NEMA 14-50 outlet. This is a standardized receptacle, commonly used for electric ranges and other large appliances.

How much does it cost to install a NEMA 14-50 outlet in Texas? ›

The overall cost also takes into account any permitting fees. The cost of an installation for a NEMA outlet installation ranges from $500 to $2,500.

What is the most common NEMA plug? ›

Typically, NEMA 14-50 is the recommended 50- amp plug, as it is the most versatile option. As with the 14-50, 50 is also the maximum amperage for the NEMA 6-50 plug.

Is it better to hardwire or plug in EV charger? ›

The output of an EV charger depends on the type of system. However, the consensus is that hardwired EV charging systems have more output than plug-in EV systems. This is because they are not limited by the power draw of the wall outlet.

Is it better to charge an EV on 110 or 220? ›

For drivers who do not travel far in a day, the charge provided by a household 110-volt outlet is sufficient. Others with long commutes or who drive for work need more. Home charging with a higher-voltage outlet greatly reduces charging time and adds more miles of range to your EV in the same period.

Is it better to charge an EV at home or at a public charging station? ›

Charging an EV at home is usually the cheapest way to go, though you may incur some added costs to make the process more efficient. Depending on the type of public charging station you use, replenishing the battery on the road can either be free or surprisingly costly.

Do I need a home charger for my EV? ›

You don't need to have a charging point at home to live with an electric vehicle - the other options for charging your electric car or van are expanding every day. Without a charging station at home, you can power up your EV: At work, if your workplace provides chargers. At some park-and-ride stations.

Do you need a special socket to charge an electric car? ›

You can charge using a regular domestic three-pin socket, but a dedicated home EV charger is a much better – and faster – option. Dedicated EV home chargers typically deliver around 7kW of power.

Can any electric car charge at a Tesla charging station? ›

Do Supercharger posts support all connector types? This pilot is only accessible for CCS-enabled vehicles. If a Supercharger post has two cables, non-Tesla cars can only charge with the CCS connector. Tesla is unable to accommodate vehicles that do not fully comply with CCS communication and safety protocols.

Is a dryer outlet a NEMA 14-50? ›

In your home, there are two 4-prong outlets that often get confused because of how similar they look. These are NEMA 14-30R and NEMA 14-50R. The NEMA 14-30R outlet is used for a clothes dryer, while the NEMA 14-50R outlet is used for an electric cooking range.

Can you use a NEMA 14-50 with a extension cord? ›

Product Details. This NEMA 14-50 extension cord features easy grip handles on both the plug and connector as well as bright blue LED power indicator lights that illuminate when the power is connected. This extension cord can be used with generators, electric vehicles and RV's with this configuration.

How long does it take to charge Tesla with NEMA 14-50? ›

NEMA 14-50 charging for Tesla

A standard Tesla charger with a NEMA 14-50 connector will be able to charge your Tesla battery completely in 10 hours (for the Model S) to12 hours (for the Model Y long range ).

How many amps can a NEMA 14-50 outlet handle? ›

As an EV owner, you will have plenty of charging options, but home charging will still be your top choice. The NEMA 14-50 plug is a 240 volt plug with 50 amps of maximum amperage, which is needed for a 40 amp home EV charging station to be safely used.

Do you need neutral wire on NEMA 14-50? ›

If you are plugging in a 14-50 plug you need a neutral and a ground.

What is a NEMA 6? ›

Nema 6 is a rating scale that indicates the degree to which an enclosure can be safely used in wet locations. The NEMA 6 ratings have been established by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association and are widely used for environmental conditions such as rain, snow, sleet or sprinkler water spray.

What is NEMA ratings 6? ›

NEMA 6: This rating includes all the protections of lower ratings: against the ingress of objects, fingers, and falling dirt, hose directed water, and it is undamaged by ice formation. What's more, it protects against occasional temporary submersion to a limited depth.

Is NEMA 6 explosion-proof? ›

For “Explosion-Proof” protection, it's recommended to use NEMA 7 rated equipment as it is truly resistant. All other ratings will be suitable for other purposing and hazardous area classifications aside from Ex-resistance.

Do I need 200 amp service to charge an electric car? ›

In conclusion, a 200 amp service is best for installing a home electric vehicle charger. It's certainly feasible to install a charger on a 100 amp service, but you still may be pressing the limits of amperage your house can handle while charging your EV and running other things.

Do you need 30 amp or 50 amp for electric car charging? ›

Most EVs can take in about 32 amps, adding around 25 miles of Range Per Hour of charging, so a 32-amp charging station is a good choice for many vehicles. You may also want to increase your speed or get ready for your next vehicle with a faster 50-amp charger that can add about 37 miles of range in an hour.

What size wire do I need for 50 amp EV charger? ›

For a maximum of 50 amps, you'll need a wire gauge of 6. Fifty amp breakers are most often used to power many different appliances.

Can I charge my Tesla with a 40 amp breaker? ›

The maximum rating for the Wall Connector is 10 kW or 40 amps at 240 volts. Your vehicle can charge from 180 to 265 volts. For the fastest charging, using a circuit breaker rated for 50 amps is recommended.

How many amps does a Tesla charger use at home? ›

A tesla charger will draw anywhere from 15 amps to 300 amps depending on the charger type and the Tesla model. The lower end of the spectrum is more likely at homes, whereas the higher end is more likely for commercial charging stations that provide a higher power output.

What adapter do I need to charge my Tesla? ›

Compatible with most Level 2 public charging stations, the J1772 Adapter supports charging speeds up to 19.2kW. This product comes standard with purchase of any Tesla vehicle.

Can you plug a NEMA 6 50P into a NEMA 14 50R? ›

A: This adapter converts a NEMA 6-50P (P is for plug) into a NEMA 14-50R (R is for receptacle). So if you have a wall outlet that was 6-50 you could convert it to 14-50.

What wire do I need for a 6-50 outlet? ›

A NEMA 6-50 plug connects to a 250-volt 50-amp electrical circuit. A 50-amp electrical circuit needs 8-gauge or larger wires. The NEMA 6-50's round face measures 2-1/8 inches across, and it mounts in a standard wall-mount electrical outlet box.

What does NEMA 6 50P mean? ›

A NEMA 6-50 welder outlet is rated for much higher output. The NEMA 6-50 can reach up to 50 Amps at 250 Volts, while a regular household outlet can only get up to 15 Amps at 125 Volts. One other difference to note when looking at the NEMA configurations is the location of the longer vertical terminal.

Do I need an adapter for my Tesla charger? ›

However, since Tesla has its own proprietary connector, that means Tesla owners need to use an adapter to use non-Tesla charging stations. It also means that owners of non-Tesla EVs need to use an adapter to use Tesla charging stations.

Can I plug my Tesla charger into any outlet? ›

Can I use a normal 120 volt outlet to charge? You can use a NEMA 5-15 adapter for a 120 volt outlet. This provides approximately two to four miles of range per hour of charge depending on the car. For the best home charging experience, we recommend installing a Wall Connector.

Can I plug my Tesla charger into a regular outlet? ›

Can I use a normal outlet to charge? Yes. A Type C/F (220 – 240 V) adapter is included as standard equipment with all new Tesla cars. This provides approximately three to five kilometers of range per hour of charge depending on the car.

How much does it cost to install 240V outlet in garage? ›

220V, 240V, & 250V

Nowadays, electricians will usually install 250V outlets to accommodate more appliances, but you can still have 220V and 240V outlets installed if you prefer. These outlets will generally cost $10 to $20 for the receptacle, totaling $300 or so to install.

What are NEMA 14-50 outlets used for? ›

NEMA 14-50 (50A plug). This is commonly used for electric ovens and is often found in RV parks and campgrounds. It's installed onto a dedicated 50A circuit to match the rating of the plug.

Can I put a NEMA 14-50 outlet outside? ›

This enclosure meets your needs, yes. Since it is covered, it is generally acceptable for outdoor use.

Is NEMA 6-50 better than 14 50? ›

NEMA 6-50 vs 14-50

While the 6-50 outlet may not be as popular as the 14-50, it's starting to compete when it comes to versatility. Compared to the 14-50, the NEMA 6-50 power cord is easier to install and is more flexible. The main difference of the two plug types can be seen when you make a side-by-side comparison.

What is the difference between a 6-50 and 14 50 plug? ›

The difference between the NEMA 6-50 and the 14-50 is that the 6-50 has no neutral; it only has the two hots and the ground. The NEMA 6-50 is not as common as the 14-50, but it is becoming more popular with homeowners due to it being a slightly more affordable option.

What is the difference between 14 50 and 6-50 outlet? ›

One reason, in the US the NEMA 14-50 is commonly found at RV parks and campgrounds. The NEMA 6-50 is more common in Canada less common in the US. In US homes the 14-50 is usually installed in the kitchen for electric ranges and ovens. The 6-50 is used for welding equipment, not much else.

Is a NEMA 14-50 a dryer plug? ›

In your home, there are two 4-prong outlets that often get confused because of how similar they look. These are NEMA 14-30R and NEMA 14-50R. The NEMA 14-30R outlet is used for a clothes dryer, while the NEMA 14-50R outlet is used for an electric cooking range.

How many miles can you get out of a NEMA 14-50 outlet? ›

32 Amp, Level 2, 240V, 7.7kW, NEMA 14-50 Plug, Up to 31 Miles of Range Per Hour of Charging. Indoor/Outdoor Rated, Weatherproof: Watertight, fully sealed NEMA 4 enclosure.

Does buying a Tesla include NEMA 14-50? ›

Every Tesla vehicle is delivered with a Mobile Connector and adapter to plug into a 240 volt NEMA 14-50 outlet. This is a standardized receptacle, commonly used for electric ranges and other large appliances.

What is the difference between 6 50P and 14 50P? ›

The difference between the 14-50 and 6-50 is that the 6-50 has no neutral -- it only has the two "hots" and the ground. The 6-50 may be marginally cheaper and easier to install, as the neutral wire is an added cost and the power cord is smaller and more flexible.

What is the standard dryer plug USA? ›

In the early 1990s, electric dryers used a 3-prong cord for a 240-volt circuit. Since then, homes built after 1996 are required to have a 4-prong dryer plug with a 240-volt, 30-amp circuit to reduce the risk of shock. The grounded, 4-prong plugs can also keep your home up to code.

How long does it take to charge a Tesla with NEMA 14-50 outlet? ›

NEMA 14-50 charging for Tesla

A standard Tesla charger with a NEMA 14-50 connector will be able to charge your Tesla battery completely in 10 hours (for the Model S) to12 hours (for the Model Y long range ).

How fast does NEMA 14-50 outlet charge Tesla? ›

Depends how you're charging. The new superchargers can get up to 180 miles in 15 minutes. At home you can get up to 40 miles an hour with the home charger, and somewhere around 3 to 5 mph with a standard 110 volt outlet.

How fast does NEMA 14-50 outlet charge? ›

The Tesla website for the NEMA 14-50 adapter shows the Model Y charges at a rate of 29 mi/hr so you're doing pretty well at 32 mi/hr.

What kind of electrical service do you need for a Tesla? ›

In conclusion, a 200 amp service is best for installing a home electric vehicle charger. It's certainly feasible to install a charger on a 100 amp service, but you still may be pressing the limits of amperage your house can handle while charging your EV and running other things.

Videos

1. Hubbell NEMA 6-50 Outlet DIY Installation / FAST Tesla EV Home Charging Level 2
(HandyDadTV)
2. How to Install ChargePoint Home Flex (CPH50) Plug-in with NEMA 6-50 or 14-50 outlet
(ChargePoint)
3. Hubbell NEMA 14-50 is TOO EXPENSIVE! Here are 3 alternatives
(HandyDadTV)
4. Quick Thoughts on the ChargePoint Home Flex EV Charger
(Dragon Blogger Technology and Entertainment)
5. No installation needed - get 220v Tesla fast charging from a Nema 10-30 dryer plug for under $250
(Bryan bkk)
6. Makiing a 220V AC Nema 14-50 to Dual Nema 6-50 extension cable!
(Doing Stuff with T & A)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Arielle Torp

Last Updated: 28/06/2023

Views: 5887

Rating: 4 / 5 (41 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Arielle Torp

Birthday: 1997-09-20

Address: 87313 Erdman Vista, North Dustinborough, WA 37563

Phone: +97216742823598

Job: Central Technology Officer

Hobby: Taekwondo, Macrame, Foreign language learning, Kite flying, Cooking, Skiing, Computer programming

Introduction: My name is Arielle Torp, I am a comfortable, kind, zealous, lovely, jolly, colorful, adventurous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.