Zappi vs FoxESS: Which EV charger should you choose? (2026)
Choosing an EV charger isn’t just about speed. It’s about how you’ll use it day-to-day, whether you want solar integration, how “smart” you want it to be, and whether the charger might be shared with family, tenants, or staff.
At Simple Solar we install both myenergi zappi and FoxESS EV chargers. They’re both solid. They just suit different people.
Here’s the simple way to choose.
3) App + everyday usability
Zappi
Very “consumer-friendly”: clear modes, easy control, and strong visibility of what’s coming from solar vs grid.
FoxESS
Clean, modern smart features, and good fit for people who want “one ecosystem” with compatible energy products.
If you want the simplest experience with the least tweaking, Zappi is usually the safer bet.
4) Shared use: families, tenants, workplaces
If multiple people will use the charger, access control matters.
Zappi (including the Zappi GLO style)
Often used in shared setups and can support access control approaches depending on model/config.
FoxESS
Commonly offers RFID access and OCPP support for more advanced management and integration.
Rule of thumb: for “multi-user / managed / future integration”, FoxESS can be the better fit.
5) Looks + install practicality
Both are designed for outdoor installs and are IP-rated (weather-resistant).
Your final look depends more on:
cable routing
tethered vs untethered preference
where it’s mounted (wall vs post)
cable length and parking position
We plan this during survey so it looks intentional, not like an afterthought.
6) The “best setup” for most customers in 2026
A lot of customers do this:
Use solar during the day when there’s surplus
Top up overnight on a cheap EV tariff if needed
That combo gives you low-cost charging all week without having to think about it.
So… which should you choose?
Pick Zappi if:
You want the most straightforward solar-first behaviour
You want a proven solar EV charger with clear modes
You want minimal tinkering
Pick FoxESS if:
You want RFID / multi-user control baked in
You want OCPP for advanced or future integration
You’re building a FoxESS-based home energy setup
Either way, we’ll size it properly, install it cleanly, and configure it so it matches your routine.
Quick answer (pick in 10 seconds)
Choose Zappi if you want the smoothest solar-first charging, the best “set it and forget it” experience, and a proven track record for solar homes.
Choose FoxESS if you want a clean, modern charger that fits into a wider FoxESS energy ecosystem, you care about RFID / multi-user control, or you want OCPP support for more advanced setups.
1) Solar charging: who does it better?
If you have solar panels (or plan to), you want a charger that can prioritise surplus solar so you’re charging your car with energy you would otherwise export.
Zappi
Built specifically for solar integration and known for its solar-aware modes (ECO / ECO+ / FAST).
Great if your goal is: “use as much of my own solar as possible without fiddling.”
FoxESS
Strong “smart charger” option, especially if you’re already using FoxESS gear and want everything under one umbrella.
Solar behaviour depends on the overall system design and how you configure the setup.
Rule of thumb: if solar-first charging is the headline feature you care about, Zappi usually wins. If you’re building a broader FoxESS setup, FoxESS is a clean fit.
2) Charging speed: 7kW vs 22kW (this is about your property, not the brand)
Both ranges commonly come in:
7kW for most UK homes (single-phase)
22kW for three-phase supplies (more common in some commercial sites)
Zappi supports 7kW and 22kW variants.
FoxESS A-Series covers typical home to higher-power installs (including up to 22kW models).
If you’re not sure what you have, we confirm this in the survey and recommend the right rating.
Want a fixed quote?
Click Get a quote and we’ll recommend the best charger for your property, your supply, and whether you’re pairing it with solar and/or battery.
Click Get a quote for a free, fixed-price quote, or call 01752 916 013 to speak with the team.