What Walmart carries in car chargers and where to find them

Walmart stocks portable EV chargers and charging cables in most locations, typically in the automotive section near batteries and car maintenance supplies. The inventory varies by store — some carry Level 1 chargers (the slowest, 120-volt option that comes with most new electric vehicles) and Level 2 chargers (240-volt units that charge faster at home), while others stock only cables and adapters. Your best move is to call your local Walmart automotive department directly or check the store's website for your zip code to see what's in stock before you drive there.

Walmart also sells chargers online through Walmart.com with home delivery or in-store pickup options. Online, you'll find a wider selection than most physical stores carry, including brands like Tesla, ChargePoint, and Grizzl-e. Prices typically range from under $30 for basic charging cables to several hundred dollars for a full Level 2 home charging unit, though exact pricing and availability shift based on current inventory and sales.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart's physical stores carry some EV chargers in the automotive section, but inventory varies widely by location and store size.
  • Walmart.com offers a larger selection of chargers than most stores, with options for home delivery or in-store pickup.
  • Level 1 chargers (120-volt) are slower but cheaper, while Level 2 chargers (240-volt) cost more but charge your vehicle significantly faster.
  • Calling your local Walmart automotive department is the fastest way to confirm whether they have the specific charger type you need in stock.

Understanding the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers

A Level 1 charger uses a standard 120-volt household outlet — the same outlet you'd plug a lamp into. It adds about 3 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging, so a full charge overnight takes 24 to 48 hours depending on your vehicle's battery size. Most new electric vehicles come with a Level 1 cable included, so you may not need to buy one. Level 1 is fine if you drive short distances daily and can charge overnight, but it's slow for road trips or if you need a quick top-up.

A Level 2 charger requires a 240-volt outlet (the kind used for electric dryers or ovens) and adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour. A full charge takes 4 to 10 hours depending on battery size. Level 2 chargers are what most EV owners install at home because they're much faster than Level 1. Walmart carries both plug-in Level 2 units (you install them yourself in an existing 240-volt outlet) and hardwired models (which require an electrician). If you're buying at Walmart, a plug-in Level 2 charger is simpler to set up, though you'll need a 240-volt outlet already available in your garage or driveway.

How to check Walmart inventory before you shop

Go to Walmart.com, search for "EV charger" or "car charger," and enter your zip code at the top of the page. The site will show you which items are in stock at your nearest stores and which are available for delivery or pickup. You can filter results by price, brand, and charger type (Level 1 or Level 2) to narrow down your options. If the charger you want isn't in stock locally, you can order it online for pickup within a few days or have it shipped to your home.

If you prefer to call ahead, find your local Walmart's phone number on Walmart.com and ask for the automotive department. Tell them the specific charger model or type you're looking for — for example, "Do you have any Level 2 home chargers in stock?" — and they can tell you when ready whether it's available. This saves a trip if your store doesn't carry what you need.

What to know about installation and setup

A Level 1 charger requires no installation — you plug it into any standard outlet and you're done. Level 2 chargers are more complex. If you buy a plug-in model, you still need a 240-volt outlet in your garage or outside near where you park. If you don't have one, you'll need to hire a licensed electrician to install it, which typically costs $500 to $2,000 depending on how far the outlet is from your electrical panel and local labor rates. Walmart does not install chargers, but the product page usually lists whether an electrician is required.

Hardwired Level 2 chargers (which are permanently connected to your electrical system) also require an electrician and are more expensive upfront, but they're often more reliable long-term. Before buying any Level 2 charger at Walmart, confirm that you either have a 240-volt outlet available or are willing to pay for installation. Some electric utilities also offer rebates or incentives for home charger installation — check your utility's website to see whether you may have access to for help with costs.

Comparing Walmart chargers to other retailers

Walmart's charger selection is smaller than specialty EV retailers like ChargePoint or Tesla's online store, but prices are often competitive. Home Depot and Lowe's carry similar Level 2 chargers at comparable prices, and Amazon typically has a wider brand selection. The main advantage of buying at Walmart is convenience — you can pick up in-store the same day if it's in stock, and you can return it easily to any Walmart location if there's a problem.

If Walmart doesn't have the charger you want, check whether a nearby Home Depot, Lowe's, or Best Buy carries it. Online retailers like Amazon often have faster shipping and more options, though you'll pay shipping costs unless you have a membership. For the best price, compare the same model across retailers before buying, since charger prices fluctuate and sales vary by store and season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special charger for my electric car brand?

Most Level 1 and Level 2 chargers work with any electric vehicle sold in North America, as they all use the same standard connector (SAE J1772). Tesla vehicles come with an adapter that lets them use standard chargers. Check your vehicle's manual or the charger product page on Walmart.com to confirm compatibility before buying.

Can I use a Level 1 charger permanently or do I need to upgrade?

You can use Level 1 indefinitely if your driving pattern allows it — short daily commutes and overnight charging work fine. Most owners upgrade to Level 2 because it's faster and more convenient, especially if they drive longer distances or need to charge during the day. It depends on your schedule and how far you drive weekly.

What if I rent my home or apartment?

Level 1 chargers are your best option because they plug into any outlet and require no installation. For Level 2, you'd need your landlord's permission to install a 240-volt outlet, which most landlords won't allow. Some apartments have shared charging stations — check with your building management about what's available.

How long do EV chargers last?

Level 1 and Level 2 chargers typically last 10 to 15 years with normal use. Most come with a one- to three-year manufacturer warranty. Walmart's return policy lets you return chargers within 90 days if there's a defect, so test it soon after purchase to catch any problems early.