Frequently Asked Questions

It varies by station, network, and location. Public DC fast charging typically ranges from $0.25–$0.65/kWh. Level 2 stations are often cheaper at $0.15–$0.35/kWh. Some stations are free, especially at retail locations. ChargeBuddy helps you compare these prices side by side so you always get the best deal.

Level 2 uses AC power at 7–19 kW, adding about 25–30 miles of range per hour. DC Fast Charging delivers 50–350 kW and can add 100–200 miles in 20–30 minutes. DC Fast is more expensive but much faster — ideal for road trips or when you need a quick top-up.

Charging networks set their own prices based on electricity costs, demand, location, and business model. Time-of-use rates, session fees, idle fees, and membership discounts all create complexity. That's exactly why we built ChargeBuddy — to cut through the confusion and show you the real cost.

It's our 1–10 rating that factors in price per kWh, charger speed, number of available ports, and station reliability. A higher score means better overall value — not just the lowest price. It helps you find stations that are both affordable and convenient.

Yes, ChargeBuddy is completely free. We believe EV charging price transparency should be accessible to everyone. No sign-up required, no premium tiers — just open the map and start comparing.

We aggregate data from the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuel Stations database, the Open Charge Map, and crowdsourced reports from our users. Our AI analyzes and normalizes this data for easy comparison across all networks and pricing formats.

Prices are sourced from official databases and updated regularly, but some networks change pricing frequently. We recommend confirming the price on the charger or network app before plugging in. You can also report updated prices to help the community keep data accurate.

We cover all major US networks including ChargePoint, Electrify America, EVgo, Tesla Supercharger, Blink, SemaConnect, Volta, FLO, Shell Recharge, and more. If a station is in the NREL database, it's on our map.

Road trip planning is coming soon! For now, you can search any area on the map to scout charging options along your route. Just type in a city or address to see what's available and compare prices before you hit the road.

Use the "Report Price" button on any station detail card to submit updated pricing or report issues. Community reports help keep our data accurate for everyone. The more drivers contribute, the better ChargeBuddy gets.