Best Armoured Cable & Charging Leads: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics
Installing an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger involves two distinct types of cabling that often get confused. First, there's the Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable that feeds power from your consumer unit to the charging point—this is the heavy-duty stuff that usually runs underground or along exterior walls. Secondly, there's the Type 2 charging cable that connects the car to the wallbox.
In Leeds, particularly around areas with old stone terraces or awkard driveways, getting power to where you park can be a challenge. I often see people struggling with cables that are too short, or worse, installed with insufficient protection against the elements and mechanical damage.
In this review, I've looked at three key products: an armoured supply cable for the installation itself, and two contrasting charging leads for day-to-day use. I'll explain why cable thickness matters and help you choose the right kit for a safe, reliable charge.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Cable Thickness (CSA)"
"Many assume a 2.5mm cable handles 20-30 amps easily."
For EV chargers running at 32A (7kW) continuously for hours, 2.5mm is often borderline or undersized due to voltage drop and thermal constraints. We usually start at 6mm for the main supply run to be safe.
The Spec: "Charging Speed (22kW vs 7kW)"
"Buying a 22kW cable means you will charge at 22kW."
You are limited by the 'weakest link'. Most UK homes only have a single-phase supply (7kW max). A 22kW cable works, but it won't make a 7kW house charge your car any faster.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
All Lengths SWA Steel Wire Armoured 2.5mm 3 Core Cable Outdoor Cable 6943X (20m)
Event Distribution
This is a solid supply of Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable, essential for running power outside safely. The steel armour provides excellent mechanical protection against gardening tools or rodents. However, as a professional, I must note that 2.5mm is on the lighter side for EV charging and is best suited for specific low-power scenarios or very short runs.
The Good
- Tough steel armour protects against impact and rodents
- Weatherproof when properly glanded
- Cost-effective for lower load outdoor power runs
The Bad
- 2.5mm is often too small for a standard 7kW EV charger install (requires calculation)
- Stiff to work with (normal for SWA)
Installer Tip:
CRITICAL: Before burying this for an EV charger, have an electrician calculate the voltage drop. For a standard 32A (7kW) charger, we typically use 6mm cable. This 2.5mm cable is likely undersized for a main EV supply unless the run is incredibly short, but it's perfect for installing a standard outdoor socket or garden lighting alongside your parking spot.
Priced at £44.25 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonGONEO Type 2 EV Charging Cable, 22KW 32A 7M 3 Phase Mode 3
GONEO
If you want a cable that feels premium and covers all bases, this GONEO lead is the one. It is rated for 22kW (3-phase), which means it is heavy-duty and future-proof, even though most Leeds terraces are single-phase. The build quality, from the ultrasonic welding to the silver-plated contacts, gives me confidence in its longevity.
The Good
- Supports 3-phase charging (22kW) for maximum speed capability
- Excellent build quality with silver-plated contacts
- 7m length is a good middle-ground for most driveways
The Bad
- Heavier and bulkier to handle than a standard 7kW cable
- More expensive than basic leads
Installer Tip:
Don't worry if your home is only single-phase (standard UK plug). This 3-phase cable is fully backward compatible. It just means you have a thicker, more durable cable that won't get warm even under full load. It's a great 'buy once' investment.
Priced at £129.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonEzGoGo Type 2 Charging Cable, 32A / 7.2kW / 1 Phase / 8 Meter
EzGoGo
The standard 5m cable supplied with many cars often falls short—literally. In Leeds, where you might be parking two cars deep or navigating a shared driveway, this 8-metre option from EzGoGo is a life saver. It is rated for the standard 7.2kW charging speed found in most domestic installs.
The Good
- 8-metre length solves awkward parking issues
- Fully compatible with standard UK home chargers (7kW)
- IP65 rating offers excellent weather resistance
The Bad
- Only single-phase (won't get 22kW speeds at public rapids)
- Microfiber towel included is a bit of a gimmick, but useful
Installer Tip:
If you are running a cable across a pavement (only if permitted!) or a walkway, the extra length allows you to route the cable flat along the ground rather than having it suspended in the air like a tripwire. Always loop excess cable neatly rather than leaving it as a trip hazard.
Priced at £76.49 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Does armoured cable need to be buried for an EV install?
Why is 2.5mm cable often considered too small for EVs?
Can I install SWA cable myself?
What is the difference between single-phase and 3-phase cables?
Do I need a new Consumer Unit for an EV charger?
How much does professional EV charger installation cost in Leeds?
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