In the evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), the J1772 standard provides a common connector design across North American manufacturers, ensuring compatibility and ease of use. In contrast, Tesla has a unique NACS charging connector standard. In the following, we will explain the differences and compatibility of J1772 and NACS charging.
What Is the J1772 Charger?
A J1772 (J Plug) is a standard charging connector for electric vehicles. J1772 Chargers, the J1772 connector, is universally used at all non-Tesla Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations in North America. Almost all EV manufacturers, except Tesla, use the J Plug for charging.

What Is a NACS Charger or Tesla Charger?
North American Charging Standard (NACS) is an electric vehicle (EV) charging connector standard. Tesla created NACS, and many of their cars use this connector.

NACS Charger or Tesla Charger
Difference Between J1772 and NACS charger?
J1772 and NACS differ in many aspects such as charging current, charging levels, charging power, application scenarios and regions, etc. See the following chart for details:
EV Connector Type |
J1772 Type 1 |
NACS |
Charging Current Type |
AC (single-phase) |
AC (single & three-phase)/DC |
Max Input Voltage |
120V or 208V/240V |
500V |
EV Charger Level |
Level 1, Level 2 |
Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 |
Max Power Output |
Up to 19.2kW |
250kW |
Mostly Used In |
North America, Japan |
Used by Tesla models |
Cost to Charge EV |
Affordable |
Higher |
Charging Current
The J1772 plug is designed for AC single-phase charging, whereas the NACS connector supports both AC and DC charging.
EV Charging Levels
The J1772 connector is suitable for level 1 and level 2 charging. Tesla's NACS connector is more versatile and supports level 1, level 2, and level 3 DC fast charging.
Charging Speed & Power
The J1772 standard Level 1 charging utilizes a standard 120 V AC household outlet providing approximately 4-5 miles of range per hour. Level 2 charging increases the voltage to 240 V AC, offering considerably faster charging speeds with a maximum output of 19.2 kW. This translates to around 12 to 80 miles of range per hour, depending on the EV model and the specific charging station.
Tesla's NACS Superchargers offer Level 3 DC fast charging facilities and can deliver up to 250 kW of power, enabling Tesla vehicles to accrue 200 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes.

Application Scenarios and Regions
The J1772 charger is widely used for home and public in North America and Japan. Level 2 is the best home EV charger that takes into account both price and efficiency. The best level 2 EV charger is favored by users. Many car owners install and use it at home.
The NACS charger is the charging connector type used by Tesla models. It is particularly advantageous for fast charging, which is convenient for quickly replenishing power during long-distance driving.
Cost to Charge EV
Many public charging stations in the United States are equipped with J1772 connectors, which can be seamlessly integrated with existing charging infrastructure, and J1772 is an affordable charging equipment option.
NACS charging costs may be higher: While Tesla's Superchargers provide fast and convenient charging, the associated costs may not be competitive compared to other charging networks, especially for non-Tesla electric vehicle owners.
Compatibility Issues
Although the two EV charging types, J1772 and NACS, are different in many aspects, they are interoperable and can be made compatible through adapters.
Can Tesla Charge With a J1772?
Yes, Tesla owners can charge using a J1772 connector. To do this, Tesla owners typically need to use a J1772 to Tesla adapter. With the adapter, Tesla vehicles can plug into the 120v level 1 J1772 charging port or the 240v level 2 charging port for charging.
Can Non-Tesla EV Owners Charge at NACS Chargers?
Yes, non-Tesla owners need a Tesla to J1772 adapter to use Tesla charging stations. This adapter can help non-Tesla owners charge conveniently and quickly on a Tesla Wall Connector, a Tesla Mobile Connector, or a Tesla Destination Charger. According to Motor Trends, major American automakers are planning to equip their new electric vehicles with NACS port.
Can You Charge a J1772 on a Tesla Supercharger?
No, you can not use a J1772 on Tesla Superchargers. J1772 is a plug used only for AC charging. Tesla Superchargers are DC Fast Chargers. Currently, there are no adapters available that allow non-Tesla EVs to use Tesla Superchargers.
Conclusion
The J1772 standard is the universal standard adopted by electric vehicles sold in North America. The J1772 plug creates a seamless charging experience for non-Tesla electric vehicle owners, while Tesla owners can adapt with a simple adapter.
The best home EV charger offers a seamless charging experience with these J1772 plugs. NACS charger has faster charging speed,it has advantages particularly during long-distance travel.
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