The Best Level 1 Charger for Kia EVs
What is the best level 1 charger for Kia EVs? In this guide, we take a look at some of the most popular level 1 charging options for Kia EVs.
Electric vehicles (EVs) such as the Kia EV6, Niro EV, and other models in Kia’s lineup come equipped with a Level 1 charging cable that plugs into any standard 120V household outlet. This “normal plug” approach offers immediate convenience since no special wiring or electrician is needed—but not all Level 1 chargers are created equal. In this guide, we’ll explore the best level 1 charger for Kia EVs including:
- Kia’s OEM Level 1 charger and its capabilities
- Third-party Level 1 options that work seamlessly with Kia EVs
- Key features a best‐in‐class Level 1 charger should offer (cord length, amperage, safety features)
- Why many Kia owners eventually upgrade to Level 2 charging
Kia’s OEM Level 1 Charger
Every Kia EV—including the EV6, EV9, Niro EV, and Soul EV—comes factory-equipped with an OEM Level 1 portable charger that Kia lists under part number 91996-GI020. This charger is designed specifically for Kia’s Type 1 (SAE J1772) inlet and delivers the following characteristics:
- Voltage & Amperage: 120V, 12 A (1.44 kW) output, adding approximately 3–4 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Connector: SAE J1772 on the vehicle end and a standard NEMA 5-15 plug on the home end (fits any 120V outlet).
- Cable Length: Typically around 20–25 feet, allowing owners to park slightly away from their garage or driveway outlet.
- Portability & Durability: Water-resistant housing (splash proof) and fold-up plug for easy storage in the trunk.
Because this cable is OEM-branded, compatibility is guaranteed: it will communicate properly with the vehicle’s onboard charger to regulate current, prevent overdraw, and shut off automatically when the battery is full. You can purchase a new 91996-GI020 charger from Kia dealers or reputable resellers (e.g., eBay listings for about $200–$300) when you need a replacement or a second unit for multiple‐car households.
The Pros & Cons of Kia’s OEM Charger
Pros
- Perfect fit for Kia’s EV charging port—no adapters required.
- Built-in safety features (ground‐fault detection, temperature sensors).
- Water/Humidity resistance designed for outdoor use.
Cons
- Limited to 12 A (slower than some 16 A Level 1 options).
- Shorter cord lengths (20–25 ft) may be restrictive for certain garage layouts.
- OEM price premium (often $200+ for a replacement cable).
Third-Party Level 1 Chargers Compatible with Kia EVs
If you want a more flexible, higher-amp Level 1 solution than Kia’s 12 A cable, consider reputable third-party brands that deliver up to 16 A on a 120 V circuit (1.9 kW). These cables use SAE J1772 on one end (just like Kia’s OEM) and a NEMA 5-15 plug on the other. When considering the best level 1 charger for Kia Evs, the two most common recommendations across Kia owner forums typically include:
- Schumacher SC1455 (16 A, 28 ft cable) -The Schumacher SC1455 is a portable Level 1/Level 2 charger that automatically adjusts to either 120 V or 240 V. In Level 1 mode, it delivers up to 16 A, providing ~4–5 miles of range per hour. Its 28-foot cable gives extra reach for tight parking spaces. Owners report stable charging on Kia EVs when configured to 16 A, although you must ensure your outlet and wiring can handle the full 16 A draw.
- ClipperCreek LCS-20P (16 A, 25 ft cable) - ClipperCreek is known for durable, UL-listed EVSEs. The LCS-20P model draws 16 A on a 120 V circuit without derating. It features a 25-foot cable with OEM-grade SAE J1772 connector and robust IP67 weatherproof housing. Installation is truly plug-and-play: simply plug into a dedicated 20 A outlet (ideally a NEMA 5-20) for the full 16 A.
- Asani Level 1 & Level 2 Portable (16 A) - Although primarily known for its Level 2 performance, Asani also offers a USB-style Level 1 adapter cable that pairs with any portable J1772 charger to deliver up to 16 A at 120 V. The advantage is that you can later use the same charger for Level 2, making it future-proof if you upgrade. Owner forums note compatibility with Kia EV6 and Niro EV when set to 120 V/16 A operation.
Key Criteria When Choosing The Best Level 1 Charger for Kia EVs
When it comes to choosing third party level 1 chargers for Kia EVs, there are several factors to consider:
- Amperage Capacity: Up to 16 A on 120 V gives faster charging (~4–5 miles/hour) compared to Kia’s 12 A OEM.
- Cord Length: Look for 25 ft or longer to accommodate garages, driveways, or street parking.
- Build Quality & Weatherproofing: Ideally IP54 or IP67 rated for reliable outdoor use.
- Onboard Safety Features: GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter), over-temperature shutdown, and short-circuit protection.
- Brand Reputation & Warranty: Established EVSE manufacturers (Schumacher, ClipperCreek, Asani) offer better support and multi-year warranties.
Why Some Kia Owners Stick with OEM and Others Upgrade
Owning a Level 1 charger that draws 12 A—like Kia’s 91996-GI020—can perfectly satisfy:
- Short Daily Commuters: If your Kia EV6 or Niro EV only travels 20–30 miles/day, a 12 A charger replenishes about 4 miles/hour. Seven hours of overnight charging yields 28 miles—enough to cover most commutes without worry.
- PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) Owners: Models like the Kia Niro PHEV have 8–14 kWh packs. A 12 A charger restores their battery fully in 6–8 hours—ideal for owners who only need a few dozen miles of EV range.
- Renters & Temporary Setups: A portable OEM cable fits any 120 V outlet, so someone in a month-to-month lease can move without dealing with a hardwired charging station.
However, heavier drivers or those who frequently take longer trips often opt for a 16 A Level 1 cable. The roughly 33 percent faster charge (16 A vs. 12 A) can mean the difference between a strained overnight top-off and a reliably full battery each morning.
Making the Final Choice: The Best Level 1 Charger for Kia EVs
When selecting the best Level 1 charger for your Kia EV, consider:
- Amperage Needs: If your home can safely support a 16 A draw (a dedicated 20 A breaker and #12 gauge wiring), a 16 A portable charger (Schumacher SC1455 or ClipperCreek LCS-20P) will consistently outperform the OEM 12 A cable.
- Cord Length & Flexibility: A 25–28 ft cable allows less precise parking. If your garage outlet sits at the back of the bay, a longer cable prevents tripping hazards or awkward routing.
- Weatherproofing & Build Quality: An IP54 or better rating ensures the charger stands up to occasional rain, dust, or temperature swings.
- Budget & Portability: OEM cables cost $200–$300. Quality third-party options range from $150–$300. If you plan to take your charger on the road or to a future home, a detachable plug-in Level 1 cable is invaluable.
Our Top Recommended Level 1 Chargers for Kia EVs
Schumacher SC1455 (16 A, 28 ft)
- Why We Like It: Offers dual‐voltage (120 V and 240 V), so you can use it as a “bridge” until installing Level 2. The 28 ft cord handles most driveway/garage layouts.
- Considerations: Must confirm your outlet and wiring safely support 16 A continuous draw.
ClipperCreek LCS-20P (16 A, 25 ft)
- Why We Like It: Industrial build quality, simple plug-and-play operation, and UL listing ensure longevity. The 25 ft cord is ample for most residential scenarios.
- Considerations: Compact housing and rugged design add weight (20+ lbs), but durability makes it worthwhile.
Kia OEM 91996-GI020 (12 A, 20–25 ft)
- Why We Like It: Guaranteed compatibility, built by Kia for your EV6, Niro EV, or Soul EV. It automatically limits current to 12 A, protecting older outlets.
- Considerations: Slower than 16 A competitors; best if your daily mileage remains under 30 miles or you drive a Kia PHEV.
Why Many Kia EV Owners Upgrade from Level 1 to Level 2 Charging
Although a Level 1 charger (120 V) can work in certain scenarios—especially if you drive fewer than 30 miles a day—there are compelling reasons many Kia EV owners upgrade to a Level 2 (240 V) charging station as soon as their lifestyle or vehicle demands faster, more convenient charging.
1. Dramatically Faster Charging Speeds
A typical Level 2 home station delivers 6 kW to 11.5 kW—between 20 and 45 miles of range per hour—versus just 3–5 miles/hour on a 12 A Level 1 cable or 5 miles/hour on a 16 A Level 1. For your Kia EV6 (77.4 kWh battery) or Niro EV (64 kWh battery), consider how quickly you can go from 10 percent to 80 percent charge:
- Level 1 (12 A, 1.44 kW): 60 kWh needed → ~42 hours of continuous charging.
- Level 2 (7.2 kW): 60 kWh → ~8 hours.
- Level 2 (11.5 kW, 48 A): 60 kWh → ~5 hours.
Even a modest 7.2 kW station ensures your 300+ mile-range EV is topped off overnight (~10 hours of charging), whereas Level 1 often requires multiple nights to reach the same state of charge.
2. Seamless Daily Life & Emergencies
Imagine returning home with only 10 percent battery after a long road trip. With Level 1 at 1.44 kW, that might add just 5 miles/hour, meaning you need all day (or multiple days) to fully recharge. In contrast, a Level 2 station at 7.2 kW would add 25 miles/hour, filling your tank in just a few hours. This reduces “range anxiety” and makes spontaneous travel easier.
3. Smart Charging & Energy Management
Most Level 2 stations include built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, enabling:
- Scheduled Charging: Automatically start at midnight or during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower utility rates.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Track kWh consumed, estimate cost per session, and receive alerts when charging is complete or interrupted.
- Integration with Home Energy: Some chargers can prioritize solar PV output or participate in utility demand-response programs, easing strain on the grid and potentially saving you money.
Kia’s “Connect” or “Kia Access” apps (depending on model year) often integrate with smart chargers, allowing true hands-off operation from your smartphone.
4. Reduced Reliance on Public Charging & Cost Savings
Public DC fast chargers (Level 3) deliver 50–350 kW but come with premium rates ($0.25–$0.50/kWh plus session fees). Every kWh you draw at home—whether Level 1 or Level 2—costs your utility rate (around $0.13–$0.15/kWh). Faster Level 2 charging means you rarely, if ever, need to use costly public DC fast chargers for daily top-offs, maximizing long-term savings.
5. Future-Proofing for Larger Batteries
Kia’s future EVs (EV9 with 105 kWh battery, EV5, or next-gen Niro EV) demand more input power. Level 1’s slow trickle becomes entirely impractical for 100+ kWh packs. A 60 percent recharge on a 105 kWh battery:
- Level 1 at 1.44 kW: ~44 hours (impossible for daily use).
- Level 2 at 9.6 kW (40 A): ~6.5 hours—overnight feasible.
- Level 2 at 11.5 kW (48 A): ~5 hours.
Installing Level 2 now ensures you won’t outgrow your home charging as Kia’s lineup evolves.
How to Upgrade to Level 2 Charging for Your Kia
Upgrading from Level 1 to Level 2 EV charging requires the help of professionals and typically involves a few key steps:
Electrical Panel Assessment
A licensed electrician inspects your panel to confirm space for a new 30–50 A breaker. If your panel is full or older, an upgrade to 200 A service may be required.
Choose Installation Type:
- Hardwired Level 2 Station: The charger is wired directly to a dedicated breaker in your electrical panel offering the most reliable, aesthetically clean option.
- Plug-In Level 2 Station (NEMA 14-50/6-50): A dedicated 240 V outlet (NEMA 14-50 or 6-50) allows you to simply plug the Level 2 unit in. This is portable if you move, but prone to accidental unplugging if bumped, which is one of the reasons ChargerPro always recommends hardwiring into your electrical panel.
Obtain Permits
Most jurisdictions require an electrical permit to install a Level 2 charger to ensure code compliancy. The electrician runs conduit, installs the breaker, outlets or mounts the charger, and tests the installation.
Check for Incentives
In some instances, you may be eligible for federal and state EV, and EV charging tax incentives and rebates (30 percent of hardware+installation, up to $1,000). We also recommend checking with utility companies for rebates to offset costs. ChargerPro created the 30C EV Charger Tax Credit Checker Tool to help EV owners discover cost savings. Simply plug in your address to see if you qualify.
Check out the following guides for more information and potential savings.
- EV Tax Credits, Rebates, and Charging Incentives Available In Texas, Colorado and Pennsylvania
Install & Configure
Mount the unit, connect to your Kia’s J1772 inlet, and test a charging session. Use the station’s app to schedule overnight charges, monitor usage, and optimize for off-peak rates.
Thinking about making the switch to Level 2 EV Charging?
While it might seem overwhelming to upgrade from level 1 to level 2 charging, ChargerPro makes the switch simple, affordable and hassle-free. Get upfront pricing in a few simple clicks and let ChargerPro handle every step of the process from start to finish.
Key Takeaways
While every Kia EV includes a Level 1 (120 V) charging cable, not all Level 1 chargers offer the same performance, cord length, or durability. Kia’s OEM 91996-GI020 Level 1 charger (12 A) is a safe, guaranteed-fit choice for many low-mileage or PHEV owners. However, drivers who want faster replenishment and greater flexibility often upgrade to a 16 A Level 1 portable model from Schumacher or ClipperCreek (both 25–28 ft cords). These third-party chargers deliver 4–5 miles of range per hour, versus 3–4 miles with the OEM 12 A cable.
Ultimately, if your Kia EV lifestyle involves longer daily drives (40+ miles), multiple EVs, or frequent road trips, it’s worth factoring in a Level 2 (240 V) station to round out your home charging arsenal. But for straightforward, no-installation overnight top-off—especially in apartments, rentals, or for light-mileage commuters—a well-chosen Level 1 charger remains an excellent, budget-friendly solution.
Choose the charger that aligns with your wiring capacity, parking layout, and daily mileage, and you’ll ensure your Kia EV is always ready to roll.
For more helpful resources to help you navigate Level 2 charging, installation costs, and optimizing savings of EV ownership - check out these additonal resources:
