The electric vehicle world is evolving rapidly, and with it, the way we charge our cars at home. If you’re shopping for an EV charger, you’ve probably encountered two terms that might seem confusing: J1772 and NACS (Tesla-style) connectors.
Why are there two different types and what do they mean for your charging experience? In this post, we’ll break down these connector standards in simple terms, so you can understand what you’re seeing in the marketplace.
Understanding the EV charger connector landscape
Think of EV connectors like different types of phone chargers—they serve the same basic purpose, but different manufacturers have used different designs over the years. The good news? The EV industry is moving toward more standardization, making charging simpler for everyone.
J1772: The established standard
The J1772 connector has been the industry standard for most electric vehicles for over a decade. Developed as a universal solution, it was designed to work across different car manufacturers, creating consistency in the charging experience. Here’s what else to know about the J1772 connector:
- Nearly universal compatibility with non-Tesla EVs means most vehicles on the road today use this connector
- Widespread infrastructure with thousands of public charging stations already equipped with J1772
- Proven track record of reliable performance across many vehicle brands and charging scenarios
NACS: Tesla’s connector becomes the new standard
Originally called the Tesla connector, NACS (North American Charging Standard) was Tesla’s proprietary design used exclusively with their vehicles and Supercharger network. However, the landscape changed dramatically in 2023 when major automakers began announcing their adoption of NACS for future vehicles. Here’s what else to know about the NACS connector:
- Tesla heritage means it’s been tested and refined through millions of charging sessions
- Industry adoption with most major automakers committing to NACS for their future models
- Forward momentum as the connector that will likely become the universal standard
Why two connectors exist
The existence of two connector types reflects the natural evolution of the EV industry. J1772 emerged as the industry worked toward standardization, while Tesla developed NACS to optimize performance for their specific ecosystem. Now, as the market matures, the industry is consolidating around NACS as the future standard.
This transition means you’ll see both connectors available for the next several years as the market evolves. Understanding both helps you make informed decisions about your charging setup and know what to expect as the industry continues to standardize.
How to know which connector your car uses
Luckily, NACS and J1772 connectors look fairly different, and it’s straightforward to identify which one your car uses. The NACS connector is slightly more squared off, while the J1772 connector has a rounder profile:
The easiest way to find out what connector type your car needs is to look at your vehicle’s charging port, typically located behind a small door on the side or front of your car. If you drive a Tesla, you have a NACS connector. For most other EVs manufactured before 2025, you’ll find a J1772 port.
If you’re still unsure, check your owner’s manual or vehicle specifications online—the connector type is usually listed in the charging section. Many newer EVs also come with adapters, so don’t worry if you encounter a different connector type at a public charging station.
What this means for you
Whether you’re shopping for your first EV or looking to upgrade your home charging setup, you now understand why you’re seeing different connector options. Both J1772 and NACS deliver reliable charging—the difference is mainly about timing and compatibility with your specific vehicle.
The most important thing? Choose a high-quality charger from a trusted manufacturer that supports the connector your vehicle needs. Emporia’s award-winning EV chargers are available with both connector types, ensuring you get exceptional performance and customer service regardless of which standard your vehicle uses.
