Nerd Ralph: Don't use a $5 range outlet for EV charging

I purchased two different heavy-duty 14-50R to evaluate them for EVSE use.  The Leviton 1450R is designed specifically for EVSE use.  The legrand 3894 is a heavy-duty outlet for ranges and EV chargers.  I paid $60 for the Leviton 1450R at Home Depot, and $23 for the 3894 from Wesco.  Given the price difference, and the fact that the Leviton 1450R is designed specifically for EVSE use, I was expecting the Leviton to be a better quality outlet.  I was not disappointed.

The Leviton 1450R, at 207g, is heavier than the legrand 3894 at 153g.  The front steel plate is thicker at 2mm, while the plate on the legrand is 1.4mm thick.  The circular receptacle has a diameter of 2 7/16" on the Leviton and 2 1/8" on the levtion.  That will be important to note when choosing a face plate.  The most obvious electrical difference with the Leviton is the solid copper back electrical terminals.  The legrand appears to use common brass, which has a resistance about 3.5 times as high as copper.  The lower resistance copper terminals means lower temperatures while in use.

I was not able to measure the thickness of the metal used for the receptacle contacts where the plug fingers are inserted, as that would require a destructive teardown.  Given the overall robust construction of the Leviton 1450R, I think it likely uses heavier gauge metal to reduce resistance, and to maintain a stronger mechanical contact with the plug.

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