UK Type 2 Portable EV Chargers: 13A vs 16A Guide - Third Rock Energy

UK Type 2 Portable EV Chargers: 13A vs 16A Guide

Michael Hobson

Written by Michael Hobson from the Third Rock Energy Team – Specialists in portable EV charging solutions across the UK.

Type 2 Portable EV Chargers UK – Flexible, Safe & Reliable Charging | Third Rock Energy

Stop Overpaying for EV Charging: A fixed wallbox isn't always the right answer. In this guide, we reveal how a Type 2 Portable EV Charger provides a professional-grade, "plug-and-play" alternative that saves you over £1,000 in installation costs. Whether you need a 13A solution for standard UK 3-pin sockets or a faster 16A mobile option, you'll learn why portable charging is the smartest, most flexible choice for PHEV owners, renters, and frequent travelers.

Inside this guide, you will find:

  1. The Cost Revolution: How to skip the £1,500 wallbox and get reliable home charging for a fraction of the price.
  2. The Right Fit: A breakdown of 13A vs. 16A chargers to help you choose the perfect match for your vehicle.
  3. UK-Ready Reliability: Why our chargers are engineered specifically for British weather and electrical standards.
  4. The Third Rock Edge: Why thousands of UK drivers trust our safety-certified, compliant charging technology.

At Third Rock Energy, we believe the future is electric — and we’re here to help power it.

As more drivers across the UK switch to electric vehicles, demand is growing for portable EV charging solutions that offer flexibility, safety, and full compatibility with modern vehicles. Our range of Type 2 Portable EV Chargers is designed to give you complete control over when and where you charge — whether at home, at work, or on the road.

If you’re searching for a reliable Portable EV Charger in the UK, you’re in the right place.


Why Choose a Type 2 Portable EV Charger?

Tesla-BMW-Audi-Mercedes-VW-Kia-Hyundai-13A 16A Portable EV Charger | Third Rock Energy

Type 2 is the standard EV charging connector used across the UK and Europe. It features a 7-pin design and supports both single-phase and three-phase charging, making it compatible with most modern electric vehicles.

This includes models from:

If your vehicle uses a Type 2 connector (as most UK EVs do), our chargers are fully compatible.


Fixed Wallbox vs Portable EV Charger – What’s the Difference?

A fixed wallbox is ideal for regular overnight home charging. However, a portable EV charger offers something equally important: freedom.

✔ Charge from a standard 13A UK socket
✔ Use higher-capacity 16A outlets when available
✔ Travel without relying solely on public charging points
✔ Keep a reliable emergency backup in your vehicle

Whether visiting friends, staying in a holiday rental, or commuting to work, portable charging ensures you’re never dependent on public infrastructure.


Our Type 2 Portable EV Charger Range

At Third Rock Energy, we offer high-quality portable EV charging cables built to UK safety standards and designed for real-world use, compare the correct charging setup for you.


Type 2 Portable EV Charger – 13 Amp Plug (15 Metre)

Best for: Home charging & backup use

  • Plugs into a standard UK 3-pin 13A socket
  • Extra-long 15m cable for flexible parking
  • Compact, lightweight design
  • Ideal as an emergency or secondary charger

This is a practical, cost-effective solution for everyday top-ups or as a dependable backup charger in your boot.


Type 2 Portable EV Charger – 16 Amp Variable (10 Metre)

Best for: Faster charging & travel flexibility

  • Adjustable current up to 16A
  • Faster charging than standard 13A units
  • 10m heavy-duty cable
  • Ideal for higher-capacity outlets

The variable current feature allows you to tailor charging speed to match the available power supply — perfect for travel or workplace charging.


Type 2 13 Amp Charger Kit – 10 Metre (With Bracket & Carry Bag)

Best for: Organised home storage & portability

  • 13A plug for standard sockets
  • 10m cable for everyday flexibility
  • Wall bracket for tidy storage
  • Included carry bag

This complete kit offers convenience, safety, and portability in one package.


Designed for Real UK Driving Conditions

Portable EV Charger Withstand Weather | Third Rock Energy

Our portable EV chargers are:

  • Weather-resistant for year-round UK use
  • Built with durable, reinforced cabling
  • Designed for indoor and outdoor charging
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Simple, user-friendly to operate

Many models include smart safety features such as:

  • Adjustable current control
  • Temperature monitoring
  • Over-current protection
  • Fault detection systems

Safety is never optional — it’s built in.


Who Benefits Most from a Portable EV Charger?

Homeowners

Perfect if you don’t yet have a wallbox installed or want a reliable backup solution.

Holidaymakers

Charge at holiday homes, Airbnbs, or when visiting friends and family.

Commuters

Top up at work, especially where no fixed EV charging points are installed.

New EV Owners

A cost-effective way to start charging without committing to a full home installation.


Why Choose Third Rock Energy?

Third Rock Energy EV charging cables and chargers

We’re more than just an online EV charger supplier. Third Rock Energy was founded with a mission to help UK households and businesses reduce their carbon footprint through practical renewable energy solutions.

When you buy from us, you get:

✔ UK-approved, Type 2 compliant charging cables
✔ Expert advice from our in-house team
✔ Fast UK delivery
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ A company committed to sustainable energy

We combine product quality with genuine customer support — because switching to electric should be simple.


Safe, Smart & Fully Compliant

All of our portable EV chargers are:

  • Fully compliant with UK regulations
  • Built to meet rigorous safety standards
  • Tested for reliable daily performance
  • Designed to protect both your vehicle and power supply

You can charge with confidence, knowing your equipment meets UK safety expectations.


Take Control of Your EV Charging

Public chargers can be busy, unavailable, or inconvenient. With a Type 2 Portable EV Charger from Third Rock Energy, you stay in control.

Charge at home.
Charge while travelling.
Charge when it suits you.

Explore our full range of Portable EV Charging cables in the UK and enjoy flexible, reliable charging wherever you go.

 

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FAQ's

How do I know whether my EV needs a Type 1 or Type 2 charging connector?

Most modern UK and European EVs use a Type 2 connector, but some older or imported models may use Type 1 . The easiest way to check is by looking at your vehicle’s charging port or checking your owner’s manual.

  • Type 1: 5 pins
  • Type 2: 7 pins

For a simple breakdown of compatibility, visit our EV Cable Comparison Tables or read our Guide to the choosing the right type 2 charger. If you’re still unsure, our team can help — just head to Contact Us.

How long does it take to charge an electric car at home?

Charging time depends on your charger type, your vehicle’s battery size, and whether you’re using a 3‑pin charger, 7kW home charger, or 22kW three‑phase charger.


Most UK drivers using a 7kW charger can expect 20–30 miles of range per hour.


For a full breakdown of charging speeds, compare options in our Charger Comparison Table.

Do I need a home wallbox charger, or can I rely on a portable 3‑pin (granny) charger?

A portable 3‑pin charger is fine for occasional or emergency use, but it’s not recommended for daily charging due to slower speeds and increased strain on household sockets.


A dedicated 7kW home wallbox is safer, faster, and more efficient for everyday charging.


Learn more in our Ultimate Guide to the Best Home EV Charging Setup or explore our UK Safety Requirements for using portable chargers.

What length EV charging cable should I buy for my home?

Most drivers choose a 5m or 7.5m cable, but if your driveway layout is awkward or your charger is mounted far from your parking spot, a 10m or 15m cable may be better.
To help you choose the right length, check our Cable Length Guide or compare available options in our EV Cable Comparison Table.

Can I charge my electric car in the rain?

Yes — it’s completely safe to charge your EV in the rain. EV chargers and cables are built with high IP‑rated weather protection, and all Third Rock Energy chargers are designed for excellent outdoor durability.


For more details, see our Guide to Charging in the rain and IP Ratings Explained, check our the UK Safety Requirements, or explore our weather‑resistant chargers.

We are always here to help

Need product support or expert advice?Contact us today for personalised help, or have a look at our FAQs for quick answers to common questions.