solderic.com J1772 chargers provide reliable slow to moderate charging primarily for electric vehicles in North America, while CCS chargers support faster DC fast charging compatible with a broader range of EV models. Explore this article to understand the key differences and choose the right charger for your electric vehicle needs.
Comparison Table
| Feature | J1772 Charger | CCS Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Connector Type | SAE J1772 | Combined Charging System (CCS) |
| Charging Level | Level 1 & Level 2 (AC) | Level 2 (AC) + DC Fast Charging |
| Max Power Output | Up to 19.2 kW (Level 2 AC) | Up to 350 kW (DC Fast Charging) |
| Charging Speed | Slow to moderate (hours) | Fast (minutes) |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Most North American EVs (excluding some European models) | Wide EV adoption, including most modern vehicles globally |
| Usage | Residential & public AC charging | DC fast charging stations & public networks |
| Charging Ports | Single port | Dual port (AC + DC integrated) |
Introduction to J1772 and CCS Chargers
J1772 chargers are standardized Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging connectors widely used in North America, designed for slower AC charging typical in homes and public charging stations. CCS (Combined Charging System) chargers integrate the J1772 connector with two additional DC pins, enabling high-power DC fast charging for rapid energy replenishment on compatible EVs. Your choice between J1772 and CCS impacts charging speed and availability, depending on your vehicle's charging capabilities and travel needs.
Overview of J1772 Charger Technology
J1772 charger technology is a standardized Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging connector primarily used in North America, supporting AC charging at up to 19.2 kW. It features a five-pin design enabling safe communication between EVs and charging stations to manage current and voltage during charging. The J1772 connector is widely compatible with most EV models, making it a universal solution for residential and public AC charging infrastructure.
Understanding CCS Charger Technology
CCS (Combined Charging System) chargers integrate AC and DC charging capabilities, enabling faster and more versatile electric vehicle (EV) recharging compared to J1772 chargers, which primarily support slower AC charging. CCS chargers use a two-pin DC connector combined with the J1772 AC connector, allowing vehicles to switch seamlessly between charging modes. Understanding this technology helps you optimize your EV charging experience by leveraging faster DC fast charging options that CCS supports.
Key Differences Between J1772 and CCS
The J1772 charger primarily supports Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging with a maximum output of up to 19.2 kW, commonly used for everyday electric vehicles in North America, while the CCS (Combined Charging System) enables both AC and high-power DC fast charging up to 350 kW, allowing rapid energy replenishment. J1772 connectors feature five pins designed for AC charging only, whereas CCS incorporates the J1772 AC connector with an additional two large DC pins to facilitate fast DC charging. Compatibility varies as J1772 is standard for most older EVs and plug-in hybrids, while CCS is becoming the global standard for fast charging on modern electric vehicles across multiple manufacturers.
Charging Speed Comparison: J1772 vs CCS
The CCS (Combined Charging System) charger offers significantly faster charging speeds compared to the J1772 charger, with CCS capable of delivering up to 350 kW of power, while J1772 typically maxes out at 19.2 kW for Level 2 AC charging. J1772 is primarily designed for slower, overnight charging of electric vehicles, suitable for residential or workplace use. CCS supports both AC and high-power DC fast charging, making it ideal for rapid on-the-go charging in public stations, reducing charging time from hours to minutes.
Vehicle Compatibility and Use Cases
J1772 chargers are widely compatible with most electric vehicles (EVs) in North America, primarily supporting Level 2 AC charging for daily use and extended range topping up. CCS chargers combine J1772 AC capabilities with DC fast charging pins, enabling faster charging for newer EV models, especially long-distance travel and public fast charging networks. The choice between J1772 and CCS depends on vehicle charging port compatibility and the need for charging speed and convenience in various use cases.
Connector Design and Technical Specifications
J1772 connectors feature a round 5-pin design primarily used for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, supporting up to 80 amps and 240 volts, ideal for most electric vehicles in North America. CCS chargers combine the J1772 connector with two additional DC pins in a single integrated plug, enabling faster DC fast charging at up to 350 kW and higher voltages, reducing charging times significantly. Understanding your vehicle's compatibility with J1772 for slower AC charging or CCS for rapid DC charging will optimize your EV charging experience.
Availability and Network Coverage
The J1772 charger is widely available across North America, serving as the standard for Level 2 charging stations compatible with most electric vehicles (EVs) except Tesla, facilitating extensive network coverage in public and residential areas. CCS chargers, combining the J1772 connector with DC fast charging pins, have rapidly expanded in availability, offering faster charging speeds and broader network access on major highways and urban centers, especially in Europe and North America. Network coverage for CCS is growing faster due to increasing adoption by EV manufacturers and charging infrastructure providers aiming to support long-distance travel and reduce charging times.
Future Trends in EV Charging Standards
J1772 chargers, primarily used for Level 2 AC charging in North America, are evolving to support higher power outputs, but CCS chargers dominate fast DC charging with capabilities exceeding 350 kW, enabling rapid long-distance travel. Future trends indicate increased interoperability between J1772 and CCS standards, with manufacturers developing combined connectors and smart charging solutions to enhance user convenience and grid efficiency. Advances in communication protocols and vehicle compatibility are set to standardize charging experiences globally, accelerating EV adoption and infrastructure growth.
Choosing the Right Charger for Your Needs
J1772 chargers provide widespread compatibility with most electric vehicles in North America, offering reliable Level 2 charging ideal for home or public use. CCS chargers combine J1772 connectors with fast DC charging capabilities, significantly reducing charging time for compatible EV models during long trips or high-demand situations. Assess your vehicle's charging port and daily driving patterns to choose the right charger that balances convenience, speed, and availability for your needs.
J1772 charger vs CCS charger Infographic
