Quick Verdict
For road trips, Electrify America offers the cheapest per-kWh rate for non-Tesla users when using the Pass+ membership, which saves about 25% compared to pay-as-you-go pricing. Tesla Superchargers are the most cost-effective for Tesla owners, while EVgo provides a simple no-membership option with per-session fees.
As electric vehicle owners plan road trips, the cost of charging at different networks becomes a critical factor in overall ownership expenses. Choosing the right network can significantly impact travel budgets.
This comparison focuses on real-world charging costs for non-Tesla vehicles, helping buyers understand which network offers the most cost-effective options during long-distance travel.
Side-by-Side Snapshot
| Tool | Price | Free Plan | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| EVgo | Pay As You Go: $0/mo + $0.99 session fee; per-kWh rate set by station, shown in app | Pay As You Go plan ($0/mo, pay session fee only) | 2026-09-16 |
| Electrify America | Varies by station and plan (shown in app/at charger); Pass+ membership saves ~25% vs. pay-as-you-go Pass | Pass (free sign-up, pay-as-you-go, no discount) | 2026-09-16 |
| Tesla Supercharger (non-Tesla) | Set per station (example, Malta NY): $0.39/kWh members/Tesla owners vs. $0.57/kWh non-Tesla, +up to $0.50/min congestion fee | N/A — pay-per-use; no membership required for non-Tesla access | 2026-09-16 |
Where These Numbers Come From
The prices and plan details in the table above are what we recorded for each option, last checked on . Each section below links to the official site. Prices change often, so confirm the current price there before you decide.
EVgo
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
EVgo is a charging network that allows EV owners to pay per session with a $0.99 fee and variable per-kWh rates depending on the station. This network provides a pay-as-you-go option without monthly fees.
- Pay-as-you-go pricing with no monthly subscription
- Variable per-kWh rates displayed in the app for transparent pricing
- No long-term contracts or commitments
EV owners who prefer flexible, no-contract charging options and want to avoid monthly fees.
- Flexible pricing without monthly fees
- Transparent per-kWh rates shown in the app
- Per-kWh rates can vary by station and may be higher than some competitors
Electrify America
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
Electrify America is a charging network that provides electric vehicle charging stations across the United States. It offers different pricing tiers and membership options to help users manage their charging costs.
- Pass membership provides a discount of approximately 25% compared to pay-as-you-go pricing
- Free Pass membership allows users to sign up without any fees and use the network at a pay-as-you-go rate
- Pricing varies by station and plan, with membership options available through the app or at the charger
Current EV owners who want to minimize charging costs through membership discounts and prefer a flexible pricing structure without long-term commitments.
- Offers a significant discount for members compared to pay-as-you-go pricing
- Provides a free membership option for users who want to avoid subscription fees
- Pricing can vary depending on the station and plan selected, which may lead to inconsistent costs for users
Tesla Supercharger (non-Tesla)
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Tesla Supercharger is a charging network specifically designed for Tesla vehicles that offers fast charging at various locations across the United States. Non-Tesla vehicles can use these stations but are charged at a higher rate compared to Tesla owners.
- Fast charging capabilities for electric vehicles
- Available at multiple locations nationwide
- Cost-effective pricing for Tesla owners
Current Tesla owners who want to minimize charging costs and maximize convenience.
- Lower cost per kWh for Tesla owners compared to non-Tes
- No membership required for non-Tesla access
- Higher cost per kWh for non-Tesla vehicles
What to Weigh Before You Choose
Base session fee structure
Some networks charge a flat session fee on top of energy costs, which can impact the total cost for short stops. You should check whether a network includes this fee in its advertised rate or lists it separately before calculating trip expenses.
Membership discount eligibility
Subscribing to a monthly plan may reduce the per-unit cost of energy compared to paying per session. It is important to compare the savings from a subscription against the fixed monthly fee to determine if the discount justifies the commitment.
Vehicle brand surcharges
Certain networks apply different rates for users who do not own vehicles from the network's original manufacturer. You must verify if your specific vehicle model triggers a higher per-unit rate or an additional access fee at that station.
Congestion fee application
During peak times or at high-demand stations, extra charges may be applied based on the duration the vehicle occupies the spot. Check the maximum duration-based fee that can be added to your bill to understand the worst-case cost scenario.
Station-specific rate variability
Pricing is not uniform across a network and changes based on the individual station location. You need to use the provider's application to view the exact per-unit cost for each charging point along your route rather than relying on a single national average.
Run the numbers for your own driving
Enter your mileage and electricity rate in the EV vs Gas Cost Calculator to see a yearly estimate.
Our Pick and Who It Fits
EVgo is best for current EV owners who prioritize no upfront membership costs and simple per-session pricing without discounts. Electrify America suits readers who want membership discounts but may need to check station-specific rates. Tesla Superchargers are ideal for Tesla owners or those with existing Tesla membership who want the lowest per-kWh rates.
Common Questions
What's the cost for EVgo charging?
EVgo charges a $0.99 session fee plus a per-kWh rate set by the station, shown in the app.
How does Electrify America's pricing compare to EVgo?
Electrify America varies by station and plan (shown in the app/at charger), while EVgo has a $0.99 session fee plus per-kWh rates.
What's the Tesla Supercharger cost for non-Tesla owners?
Tesla Supercharger costs $0.57/kWh for non-Tesla owners, plus an up to $0.50/min congestion fee.
Which network has the lowest per-kWh rate for non-Tesla owners?
The facts do not specify which network has the lowest per-kWh rate for non-Tesla owners.
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Pricing shown was accurate at the time of publishing and may change — verify on the official site.