Deciding whether ChargePoint is "better" than EVgo depends significantly on an electric vehicle (EV) owner's specific charging needs, driving habits, and location. Both networks offer comprehensive charging solutions but cater to different aspects of the EV charging experience.
Key Differences in Charging Options
One primary distinction lies in the types of chargers each network provides:
- ChargePoint offers a full spectrum of charging solutions, including Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (DC fast chargers).
- Level 1 chargers are the slowest, often taking many hours to provide a full charge, but they are the most widely available and typically come with an electric vehicle when purchased, making them ideal for overnight home charging.
- Level 2 chargers are common for destination charging, such as at workplaces, retail centers, or public parking lots, offering a faster charge than Level 1.
- Level 3 (DC fast chargers) provide the quickest charging speeds, essential for long-distance travel and quick top-ups.
- EVgo focuses on public charging infrastructure, primarily offering Level 2 and Level 3 (DC fast chargers). While EVgo does not provide Level 1 options, its strength lies in its extensive network of high-speed DC fast chargers.
Network Size and Accessibility
ChargePoint boasts one of the largest networks of Level 2 chargers globally, often found in workplaces, apartments, and commercial locations, making it convenient for daily charging routines. EVgo, on the other hand, has a significant footprint of DC fast chargers, particularly along major travel corridors and in metropolitan areas, which is crucial for drivers needing quick charging on the go.
Pricing Models and Membership
Both networks offer various pricing structures, which can influence their perceived value:
- ChargePoint pricing can vary greatly as many of its stations are owned and operated by different hosts (e.g., businesses, cities), who set their own rates. ChargePoint offers a free app to find and activate chargers and provides subscription options for certain plans or hosts.
- EVgo typically charges per minute or per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on local regulations. They also offer various membership plans that can reduce per-session costs for frequent users.
Reliability and User Experience
User experience and charger reliability are critical factors. Both networks strive for high uptime, but the availability of operational chargers can vary by location and maintenance schedules. Both offer user-friendly mobile apps for finding stations, checking availability, initiating sessions, and managing payments.
Which Network is Right for You?
Ultimately, the "better" network depends on your priorities:
- Choose ChargePoint if:
- You primarily charge at home, work, or other destinations where Level 2 charging is sufficient.
- You value a widespread network of Level 2 chargers for daily use.
- You appreciate the option of Level 1 charging, even if it's primarily for home use.
- You want a single app to manage various charging hosts.
- Choose EVgo if:
- You frequently take road trips or need fast charging on the go.
- You live in an area with a strong EVgo DC fast charging presence.
- You prioritize quick charging sessions over longer dwell times.
For many EV drivers, using both networks, along with others, is a common strategy to ensure comprehensive charging coverage for all their needs.
| Feature | ChargePoint | EVgo |
|---|---|---|
| Charger Types | Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging | Level 2, DC Fast Charging |
| Network Focus | Extensive Level 2 network (work, retail, home), growing DCFC presence | Significant DCFC presence, strong in urban areas and major corridors |
| Ideal For | Daily charging, home integration, longer dwell times, destination charging | Road trips, quick top-ups, on-the-go fast charging |
| Pricing Models | Varies by host (per-kWh, per-session, time-based); subscriptions available | Primarily per-minute or per-kWh; various plans |
