Choosing between the Tesla Universal Wall Connector and the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) comes down to a few specific differences in power, connector type, smart features and price. Here is a data-driven breakdown to help you decide which Level 2 home charger is the right fit for your EV and your garage.
Quick verdict
Both are solid Level 2 home chargers, so the right pick depends on your situation. Choose the Tesla Universal Wall Connector if you have two EVs with different plugs (one NACS, one J1772) and want a single charger for both. Choose the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) if you want smart-home load management plus both NACS and J1772 connectors in one unit.
Specs side by side
| Spec | Tesla Universal Wall Connector | Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) |
|---|---|---|
| Max power | 48A / 11.5 kW | 48A / 11.5 kW |
| Adjustable amperage | fixed (set by circuit) | fixed 48A |
| Approx. range/hour* | ~40 mi/hr | ~40 mi/hr |
| Connector | NACS + docked J1772 adapter | NACS + J1772 included |
| Installation | Hardwire only | Hardwire or NEMA 14-50 plug |
| Cable length | 24 ft | 25 ft |
| Smart / app | Yes | Yes |
| Certifications | ETL/cETL | UL, Energy Star |
| Warranty | 4 yr | 3 yr |
| Approx. price (USD) | $550-620 | $450-550 |
*Range-per-hour is an approximate estimate (~3.5 miles per kWh) and depends on your specific EV and its onboard charger rate.
The key differences that actually matter
- Both deliver the same 11.5 kW, so real-world charging speed is a wash – the decision comes down to connector, features, and price.
- Connector is the deciding factor for many buyers: the Tesla Universal Wall Connector uses NACS + docked J1772 adapter, while the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) uses NACS + J1772 included. Match this to the car you will charge most often.
- On price, the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) is the more affordable pick (around $450-550 vs $550-620).
- Tesla backs the Universal Wall Connector with the longer warranty (4 years).
Tesla Universal Wall Connector: who it is for
Built-in NACS handle plus a docked J1772 adapter so one unit charges both a Tesla and a non-Tesla EV. Hardwire only. The J1772 adapter is docked on the unit, not a loose travel adapter. Choose it if you have two EVs with different plugs (one NACS, one J1772) and want a single charger for both.
Emporia Pro (PowerSmart): who it is for
Includes both NACS and J1772 connectors. PowerSmart adds load management. Step up from the standard Emporia Level 2 for dual-connector homes. Choose it if you want smart-home load management plus both NACS and J1772 connectors in one unit.
Which should you buy?
Both are solid Level 2 home chargers, so the right pick depends on your situation. Choose the Tesla Universal Wall Connector if you have two EVs with different plugs (one NACS, one J1772) and want a single charger for both. Choose the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) if you want smart-home load management plus both NACS and J1772 connectors in one unit. Before you buy either, check two things: your EV maximum onboard AC charging rate (there is no point paying for 11.5 kW if your car caps out lower), and whether your electrical panel can support the required circuit – a 48A charger needs a 60A breaker, and a 40A charger needs a 50A breaker.
FAQ
Is the Tesla Universal Wall Connector or Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) faster?
They charge at the same 11.5 kW, so speed is identical in practice.
Which connector do these chargers use?
The Tesla Universal Wall Connector uses NACS + docked J1772 adapter and the Emporia Pro (PowerSmart) uses NACS + J1772 included. Match this to your car: most non-Tesla EVs in North America use J1772, while Teslas and newer EVs use NACS. Many of these chargers also offer a version with the other connector.