What Is a NEMA 14-50?
A NEMA 14-50 is a 240V, 50-amp outlet — the same type used by many electric ranges and RVs. It looks like a large, four-prong plug. An electrician installs the outlet to a dedicated 50A circuit, and your EV charger plugs into it.
Installation cost: $200–$600 for the outlet itself (same circuit work, just an outlet instead of hardwiring the charger).
What Is a Hardwired EV Charger?
A hardwired charger is connected directly to your home's electrical panel with no plug — the wire goes straight from the panel into the back of the charger. This is how most residential Level 2 chargers are installed.
Installation cost: $250–$700 (same work as NEMA 14-50, slightly different termination).
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | NEMA 14-50 | Hardwired |
|---|---|---|
| Max amperage | 40A (80% of 50A circuit) | Up to 60A (on 75A circuit) |
| Charging speed | Slightly slower | Slightly faster (on same circuit) |
| Portability | Can unplug and move | Permanently installed |
| Cost difference | Roughly the same | Roughly the same |
| Aesthetics | Outlet visible on wall | Cleaner look |
| Flexibility | Can swap chargers easily | Requires electrician to change |
| Best for renters | Yes — easier to take with you | No |
| Required for some chargers | ChargePoint supports both | Some chargers hardwire only |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose NEMA 14-50 if:
- • You rent your home or plan to move within 2–3 years
- • You want the flexibility to take your charger with you
- • You want to be able to upgrade chargers without calling an electrician
- • You already have a NEMA 14-50 outlet in your garage
Choose Hardwired if:
- • You own your home and plan to stay long-term
- • You want the cleanest aesthetic (no visible outlet)
- • Your charger is hardwire-only (check manufacturer specs)
- • You want to future-proof for a faster charger or higher amperage
Important: The 80% Rule
Whether you use NEMA 14-50 or hardwiring, your charger should only draw 80% of the circuit's rated amperage continuously. This is the NEC (National Electrical Code) requirement for continuous loads.
- →50A circuit → maximum 40A charger setting
- →60A circuit → maximum 48A charger setting
- →75A circuit → maximum 60A charger setting
This is why you see chargers rated at 48A on a 60A circuit — that's exactly the 80% rule at work. Your installer will size everything correctly.