Buying EV charging equipment often comes down to a basic tradeoff: a low-cost charger that can handle either a standard household outlet or a 240V outlet, or a faster Level 2 station with higher output and smart control. This head-to-head compares the VDLPOWER J1772 Level 1 & 2 EV Charger 20FT and the SolarEdge Level 2 EV Charger. The price gap is meaningful: $49.99 versus $175. The right choice depends as much on your outlet setup as on how quickly you need to replenish range.
Quick verdict
If your priority is spending as little as possible while keeping J1772 charging practical, the VDLPOWER is the easier call. If you'd rather pay more for a more capable Level 2 station, the SolarEdge is the stronger option.
Comparison
| Spec | VDLPOWER J1772 Level 1 & 2 | SolarEdge Level 2 EV Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 | $175.00 |
| Amperage | 16A | 40A |
| Charging rate | 3.5 kW | 9.6 kW |
| Cable length | 20 ft | 25 ft |
| Charging modes | Level 1 & Level 2 | Level 2 |
| Connector | J1772 (Type 1) | J1772 (Type 1) |
| Condition | Used | New |
Where each product wins
The VDLPOWER's advantage is its two-in-one plug setup: a NEMA 6-20 connector for 240V charging and a NEMA 5-15 adapter for a normal wall outlet. That flexibility makes it more versatile in different garage layouts.
The SolarEdge's advantage is its faster output, longer 25-foot cable, and broader feature set, including plug-in or hardwire installation, app-based start/stop and scheduling, and the ability to prioritize excess solar production.
The two chargers up close
VDLPOWER J1772 Level 1 & 2 EV Charger 20FT
This unit takes a simple approach. It carries a J1772 connector that fits all non-Tesla EVs, and it comes with both a NEMA 6-20 plug and a NEMA 5-15 adapter. That means you can start charging on a standard household outlet and later move up to a 240V outlet without buying another cable. The 20-foot cable, 16A rating, and 3.5 kW charging rate are modest, but the setup is straightforward: choose the plug that matches your outlet. It is a used unit, described as basically new after three weeks of use, and it includes original packaging, a manual, and a registration/warranty card. The main limitation is its slower charging pace, so it is best for overnight or occasional top-ups rather than rapid turnaround.
SolarEdge Level 2 EV Charger
The SolarEdge is a higher-output Level 2 station with a 40A / 9.6 kW rating and a factory-sealed new condition. It can be plugged in or hardwired. The kit includes a bracket, cable holder, mounting hardware, charging cable, and software. The app lets you start and stop charging, schedule sessions, and use excess solar production. For a home with solar panels, the ability to charge with excess solar production is a clear benefit. The tradeoff is that it is a Level 2-only unit, so you will need a suitable 240V circuit, and it costs significantly more up front than the VDLPOWER.
Final choice by use case
Choose the VDLPOWER when you want the lowest up-front cost and the convenience of both outlet options from a single charger. Choose the SolarEdge when you need faster, more feature-rich Level 2 charging and your home is set up to support it. If most of your charging happens overnight, the VDLPOWER's modest speed is rarely a problem; if you need quicker turnarounds during the day, the SolarEdge earns its higher price.
