You've just landed at O’Hare, the Chicago wind is biting, and you’re stepping into a sleek Tesla Model 3 from Frontier Tesla. The car is tech-heavy, silent, and ready for the 40-mile trek to the suburbs. But then it hits you: where are you going to charge? While Tesla’s Supercharger network is the gold standard, Chicago’s dense urban layout and sprawling suburbs often require a backup plan. You open the App Store and see two giants: PlugShare and EVgo.
Choosing between them isn't just about downloading an app; it's about ensuring you aren't stranded in a Naperville parking lot at 2% battery. When we talk about plugshare vs evgo chicago, we’re looking at two entirely different animals. One is a community-driven map of every plug in existence, while the other is a dedicated high-speed charging network.
At Frontier Tesla, we’ve helped thousands of renters navigate the "Windy City" electric grid. We’ve seen what works at 2:00 AM in the Loop and what fails in Schaumburg. Here is the definitive breakdown of which app deserves a spot on your home screen.
Key Takeaways for Chicago EV Drivers
- PlugShare is the superior tool for discovery and finding non-Tesla chargers across all brands.
- EVgo provides a reliable, high-speed proprietary network with a significant footprint in Chicago retail hubs.
- Suburban Coverage: PlugShare shows more total locations, but EVgo offers more "guaranteed" fast-charging consistency in the suburbs.
- Payment: You generally cannot pay for EVgo charging directly through the PlugShare app; you’ll need the EVgo app or a compatible RFID card.
Understanding the Ecosystem: Aggregator vs. Network
Before we dive into the Chicago-specific data, we have to clear up a common misconception. Comparing PlugShare to EVgo is a bit like comparing Yelp to a specific restaurant chain.
PlugShare is an aggregator. It doesn't own any chargers. Instead, it uses crowdsourced data to show you every charging station from every company—Tesla, Electrify America, ChargePoint, and yes, EVgo. It’s the "Google Maps" of the EV world.
EVgo is a Network Operator. They own the physical pedestals, the cables, and the electricity. When you use the EVgo app, you are looking specifically for their branded hardware. In Chicago, this distinction is vital because the city's infrastructure is fragmented.
Which App is Better for Finding Non-Tesla Fast Chargers in Chicago?
If your goal is simply to find a place to juice up your rental quickly, PlugShare is the clear winner for discovery.
Why? Because Chicago’s non-Tesla fast-charging landscape is a patchwork quilt. If you’re near the Museum Campus, you might find a ChargePoint station. If you’re near a Meijer in the suburbs, it’s likely an EVgo or Electrify America spot.
Why PlugShare Wins on Discovery
PlugShare’s "Station Score" is its secret weapon. In a city like Chicago, where extreme cold can occasionally knock out older hardware, seeing a real-time score based on other drivers' successful (or failed) charges is invaluable.
I’ve found that PlugShare’s filters are much more robust for Tesla renters. You can filter specifically for "CCS/SAE" or "J1772" (using your provided adapter) and set the minimum power output to 50kW or 150kW. This ensures you aren't directed to a slow Level 2 charger when you actually need a "Level 3" DC Fast Charger to get back on the road.
The EVgo Niche
That said, EVgo is no slouch. If you are a frequent renter or a local, the EVgo app is better for managing the session. It tells you exactly how many stalls are available at their popular Chicago locations, like the ones at the Whole Foods on West Huron Street. It’s more precise for its own hardware than PlugShare can ever be.
Does EVgo or PlugShare Have Better Coverage in the Chicago Suburbs?
This is a nuanced question. If we are talking about the sheer number of pins on a map, PlugShare has better coverage in the Chicago suburbs.
However, if we are talking about usable, high-speed coverage, the answer shifts toward EVgo.
The Suburban "Plug-In" Reality
In suburbs like Aurora, Naperville, and Evanston, PlugShare will show you hundreds of Level 2 chargers located at libraries, car dealerships, and municipal buildings. These are great if you’re staying overnight, but they are painfully slow for a renter on the move.
EVgo has strategically placed its high-speed DC fast chargers in suburban retail "power centers." According to 2024 infrastructure maps, EVgo has a dense concentration of 50kW and 350kW stations near:
- Rosemont: Perfect for a quick top-off before returning your car to O'Hare.
- Oak Brook: High-traffic areas near the mall.
- Skokie: Convenient for North Shore travelers.
The "Dead Zone" Factor
What we’ve learned at Frontier Tesla is that the "far" suburbs—think McHenry or parts of Will County—can be sparse. In these areas, PlugShare is your only hope because it will reveal the lone, obscure dealership charger that might save your trip. EVgo’s footprint is much more "metro-centric."
The Payment Puzzle: Can I Pay for EVgo via PlugShare?
This is the most common question we get from first-time Tesla renters. No, you generally cannot pay for EVgo charging through the PlugShare app.
While PlugShare introduced a feature called "Pay with PlugShare" for certain participating networks, EVgo is not currently a primary partner for this integrated payment.
How to Handle Payments in Chicago
To charge at an EVgo station in Chicago, you have three main options:
- The EVgo App: Download it, add your credit card, and swipe to start the charge.
- Credit Card Reader: Most newer EVgo stations in the Chicago area have physical credit card readers, though they can be finicky in sub-zero temperatures.
- EVgo Autocharge+: If you’re renting a Tesla Model 3 from us, you can actually set up Autocharge+. This allows the EVgo station to recognize the car’s VIN and automatically bill your account the moment you plug in. It’s the closest thing to the seamless Tesla Supercharger experience.
Real-World Scenario: The "Magnificent Mile" Pitstop
Imagine you’re staying at a hotel near Michigan Avenue. You’ve spent the day driving to the Chicago Botanic Garden and your battery is at 15%.
If you open PlugShare, you’ll see a dozen options. You’ll notice a highly-rated fast charger in a parking garage three blocks away. You see a comment from "EV_Driver_Chi" posted two hours ago saying, "Stall 4 is broken, use Stall 2." This saves you ten minutes of frustration.
If you only had the EVgo app, you might not see that specific charger if it belongs to a different network like Electrify America. You’d be forced to drive further to an EVgo-specific site, perhaps losing precious time during your vacation.
Information Density: Comparing the Specs
When evaluating plugshare vs evgo chicago, it helps to look at the raw utility.
| Feature | PlugShare | EVgo |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Finding any/all chargers | Using/Paying for EVgo stations |
| Chicago Network Size | 1,200+ (All types) | ~150+ (Fast chargers) |
| Real-time Status | Crowdsourced & API | Direct from hardware |
| Best For | Road trips & Discovery | Reliable, high-speed city charging |
| Tesla Compatibility | Excellent (Filters for Tesla) | Requires CCS adapter or Autocharge+ |
Dealing with the Chicago Winter
Chicago winters are brutal on EV batteries. A 2023 study by Recurrent Auto found that EVs can lose up to 30% of their range in freezing temperatures. This makes app accuracy even more critical.
During a "Polar Vortex," PlugShare’s community notes are a lifesaver. You’ll see reports of frozen handles or screens that have gone dark. EVgo’s app is great, but it won't always tell you if the parking lot hasn't been plowed and you can't actually reach the charger. PlugShare users will.
Strategic Advice for Frontier Tesla Renters
We always recommend a "Tiered App Strategy" for anyone renting a Tesla in the Midwest:
- The Tesla In-Car Navigation: Use this first. It pre-conditions the battery for the fastest possible charge at Superchargers.
- PlugShare: Use this as your primary "scout." If the nearest Supercharger is full or too far, PlugShare will find the hidden gems.
- EVgo: Keep this as your "VIP" account. If you find yourself frequently using the chargers at Chicago grocery stores or malls, the EVgo membership can save you significant money on session fees.
Addressing Common Objections: "Isn't the Tesla App Enough?"
Many people ask, "Why do I need PlugShare or EVgo if I have the Tesla app?"
Here’s the thing: Tesla Superchargers are often located on the outskirts of the city or in specific parking structures. If you are deep in a residential neighborhood like Andersonville or Logan Square, there might be a non-Tesla fast charger right around the corner that doesn't show up in the Tesla nav. Having PlugShare allows you to see the entire map, not just the red pins.
FAQ: Navigating the Chicago EV Scene
Which app is better for finding non-Tesla fast chargers in Chicago?
PlugShare is significantly better for finding chargers. It aggregates data from every major and minor network, including private chargers and municipal plugs that other apps miss.
Does EVgo or PlugShare have better coverage in the Chicago suburbs?
PlugShare has more total pins, but EVgo has a more reliable "backbone" of high-speed chargers in major suburban retail hubs. For a quick charge, EVgo is often more dependable; for an emergency "any-port-in-a-storm" situation, PlugShare is king.
Can I pay for EVgo charging through the PlugShare app?
No. You must use the EVgo app, a credit card at the station, or a linked RFID card. PlugShare is primarily for information, not payment processing for the EVgo network.
Are there many free charging stations in Chicago?
Yes, and PlugShare is the best way to find them. Many Chicago parks and museums offer free Level 2 charging, though they are often occupied. Look for the "Green" pins in PlugShare.
The Final Verdict: PlugShare vs. EVgo Chicago
If you can only download one, make it PlugShare. Its ability to show you the entire Chicago infrastructure—including the crucial "Station Scores" that warn you about broken equipment—is essential for any EV driver.
However, for the savvy Chicago Tesla renter, the real answer is both. Use PlugShare to find the best spot, and use EVgo to execute the charge if you're at one of their high-speed locations.
Renting a Tesla should be about the thrill of the "Instant Torque" and the silence of the drive, not the stress of the search. By mastering these two apps, you’re not just driving a car; you’re mastering the city.
Ready to experience Chicago in a Tesla? Book your self-driving-capable Model 3 at Frontier Tesla and pick it up downtown today. We’ll even make sure your CCS adapter is in the trunk, just in case you find that perfect EVgo spot.
Sources
- PlugShare Interactive Map - Real-time charging station data for Chicago.
- EVgo Network Statistics - Coverage maps and station power ratings.
- U.S. Department of Energy - Alternative Fuel Data Center - National EV infrastructure research.
- Recurrent Auto 2023 Winter Range Study - Data on EV performance in cold climates like Chicago.