Countries across the world commonly have their own connection types, so it can be difficult to know the difference between them all.
However, for EV drivers in North America, it can be confusing to research which connector is right for them.
Our handy guide should help to clear things up – so you can recharge with confidence.
How many connector types are there?
Realistically, there are at least seven different connector types in use across the globe – but some of these types are only used in specific countries or continents. They will need an adapter if you want to use them in other destinations.
For a basic level of understanding, the table below will outline the basic differences between them – as well as give any commonly used names.
| Connector type | Common names | Output current type | Supply input |
| SAE J1772 connector | Type 1 | AC | Single-phase only, 120 Volts (USA/Canada), J1772 takes 240 Volts |
| Mennekes connector | Type 2 | AC | Single or three-phase, 230 Volts or 400 Volts (UK/Europe) |
| CCS Type 1/ CCS Combo 1/ SAE J1772 Combo connector | Type 1 | DC | Three-phase only, 480 Volts (USA/Canada) |
| CCS Type 2/ CCS Combo 2 | Type 2 | DC | Three-phase, 400 Volts (UK/Europe) |
| NACS | / | AC/DC | Single or three-phase (USA/Canada) |
| Connector type | Common names |
| SAE J1772 connector | Type 1 |
| Mennekes connector | Type 2 |
| CCS Type 1/ CCS Combo 1/ SAE J1772 Combo connector | Type 1 |
| CCS Type 2/ CCS Combo 2 | Type 2 |
| NACS | / |
| Output current type | Supply input |
| AC | Single-phase only, 120 Volts (USA/Canada), J1772 takes 240 Volts |
| AC | Single or three-phase, 230 Volts or 400 Volts (UK/Europe) |
| DC | Three-phase only, 480 Volts (USA/Canada) |
| DC | Three-phase, 400 Volts (UK/Europe) |
| AC/DC | Single or three-phase (USA/Canada) |
The most common types of EV charging connectors in North America are the J1772 and CCS1 combo and NACS.
What is J1772/CCS1 combo?
Abbreviated from ‘Combined Charging System,’ this connection type combines the SAE J1772 AC connector with two high-speed DC fast charging pins.
This results in a connector that has both the circular SAE J1772 structure with an oval-shaped lower section – with receivers for seven pins in total.
This connection is compatible with most car manufacturers and models sold in the US, including the BMW i3, Kia e-Niro, and Jaguar I-Pace to name a few.
Abbreviated from ‘Combined Charging System,’ this connection type combines the SAE J1772 AC connector with two high-speed DC fast charging pins.
This results in a connector that has both the circular SAE J1772 structure with an oval-shaped lower section – with receivers for seven pins in total.
This connection is compatible with most car manufacturers and models sold in the US, including the BMW i3, Kia e-Niro, and Jaguar I-Pace to name a few.
What is NACS?
The ‘North American Charging Standard’ – NACS – connector is most commonly known as a Tesla connector or Tesla charger It has five pins within a circular structure and can offer both AC and DC charging thanks to the inclusion of two DC charging pins
At the moment, this connector type is only compatible with Tesla EVs – though this is set to change starting in late 2024 when key car manufacturers in the US are bringing the NACS connector to their newer models.
The ‘North American Charging Standard’ – NACS – connector is most commonly known as a Tesla connector or Tesla charger It has five pins within a circular structure and can offer both AC and DC charging thanks to the inclusion of two DC charging pins
At the moment, this connector type is only compatible with Tesla EVs – though this is set to change starting in late 2024 when key car manufacturers in the US are bringing the NACS connector to their newer models.
How will the change in connector types affect me?
It won’t massively, except maybe for the resell value of cars with the J1772/CCS1 connector as time goes on. If you have an older EVfrom any car manufacturer, except Tesla, made from mid-2020 until late 2024 and beginning of 2025, chances are you will have a J1772/CSS connector combo. . The brands that have announced changing to NACS for some or all of their models are Ford, Audi, BMW, Mini, Rolls Royce, Fisker, GMC, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, Mazda, Porsche, Rivian, Scout Motors, Subaru, Volkswagen, Volvo, Polestar, Nissan/Infiniti, Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Aston Martin, Mercedes Benz, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati.
J1772/CCS 1 combos still have a wide commercial charging network and many established brands offering residential chargers. However, from mid-2024 to early 2025, The brands that have announced changing to NACS for some or all of their models are Ford, Audi, BMW, Mini, Rolls Royce, Fisker, GMC, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, Mazda, Porsche, Rivian, Scout Motors, Subaru, Volkswagen, Volvo, Polestar, Nissan/Infiniti, Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Aston Martin, Mercedes Benz, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati. Some of the benefits are:
- Better ergonomics and easier handling – thanks to a smaller connection and a lighter cable.
- Increased charging reliability – the Tesla SuperCharger network has a reported smaller percentage of inconsistent performance and dependability.
- Increased availability of charging points at fewer locations.
Worried your EV will be unusable after the switchover?
Don’t lose sleep – you can get a CSS1 to Tesla adapter to smooth the process.
Choose EV-Chargers.com for all your charging needs
Here at EV-Chargers, we eat, sleep, and breathe all things EV cables – from new connectors to old. As such, we know a thing or two about which connector is right for you and your electric car.
So, whether the J1772/CSS combo to NACS/Tesla connector issue affects you and you need an adapter, your Level 1 EV charger cable is past its best and needs replacing, or you need a different plug type on your Level 2 EV charger – we can help.
You can speak to us on our webchat by clicking the icon at the side of your screen, email us at [email protected], or if you are local to CA, call us at (888) 399-6916.
Alternatively, if you are completely lost, the team at EV-Chargers is also here for you, thanks to our easy-to-use EV selector tool.
