Top Rated EV Charging Apps: PlugShare vs. ChargePoint vs. A Better Routeplanner

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the need for reliable charging solutions has grown. EV charging apps help drivers locate stations, check availability, plan routes, and even pay for charging sessions. Among the top-rated apps, PlugShare, ChargePoint, and A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) stand out—each offering unique features tailored to different driver needs.

This article compares these three leading EV charging apps, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases.

1. PlugShare: The Most Comprehensive Charging Network

Overview

PlugShare is a crowd-sourced EV charging app that provides the most extensive database of charging stations worldwide. It includes all major networks (Tesla, Electrify America, EVgo, etc.) as well as smaller and residential chargers.

Key Features

• Largest Network: Covers over 600,000 charging stations globally.

• User Reviews & Photos: Drivers can leave feedback and upload photos of charging locations.

• Trip Planning: Allows users to filter chargers by plug type, speed, and network.

• Community-Driven: Users can share real-time updates on charger status.

Pros & Cons

✅ Free to use with no subscription fees.
✅ Best for finding all available chargers, including Tesla destination chargers and non-networked stations.
❌ No built-in payment system—users must use separate apps or RFID cards for charging.
❌ Limited route optimization compared to ABRP.

Best For: EV drivers who want the most comprehensive charging map and rely on community insights.

2. ChargePoint: Seamless Charging & Payment

Overview

ChargePoint operates one of the largest proprietary charging networks in North America and Europe. Its app focuses on ease of use, real-time data, and in-app payments.

Key Features

• Real-Time Status Updates: Shows charger availability and power levels.

• In-App Payment: No need for RFID cards—users can start and pay for sessions directly in the app.

• Reservations: Some stations allow advance reservations.

• Fleet & Business Solutions: Offers tools for companies managing EV fleets.

Pros & Cons

✅ Reliable, well-maintained chargers with high uptime.
✅ Integrated payment system simplifies charging.
❌ Smaller network compared to PlugShare (focuses on ChargePoint stations).
❌ Some chargers require membership for best pricing.

Best For: Drivers who frequently use ChargePoint stations and want a seamless payment experience.

3. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP): Advanced EV Trip Planning

Overview

A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) is designed for long-distance EV travel, offering sophisticated route optimization based on battery levels, charging stops, and vehicle efficiency.

Key Features

• Customizable Trip Planning: Factors in weather, elevation, and driving speed.

• Battery & Charging Optimization: Calculates ideal charging stops to minimize downtime.

• Live Data Integration: Works with OBD-II dongles for real-time battery tracking.

• Multi-Network Support: Includes Tesla Superchargers, Electrify America, and others.

Pros & Cons

✅ Best for road trips with precise range and charging calculations.
✅ Works with almost all EV models, including custom efficiency settings.
❌ Premium features require a subscription (e.g., real-time traffic updates).
❌ Less focus on local charging compared to PlugShare.

Best For: EV owners planning long trips who need precise route and charging optimization.

Final Verdict: Which App Should You Use?

• For the most charger options & community insights → PlugShare

• For easy payments & reliable ChargePoint stations → ChargePoint

• For long-distance trip planning → A Better Routeplanner

Many EV drivers use a combination of these apps—PlugShare for finding chargers, ChargePoint for easy payments, and ABRP for road trips. As EV infrastructure grows, these tools will continue to evolve, making electric driving even more convenient.

Would you like a deeper comparison on pricing or specific regions? Let us know in the comments!