Tesla produces some of the most recognizable and successful electric vehicles (EVs) in the market, but there is a substantial difference between the maximum range offered by its most expensive offerings – the Model S and Model X. To further complicate a potential purchase decision, those two vehicles are designed with specific buyers in mind. The Model S is a performance sedan intended to be an example of Tesla’s flagship technology while the upcoming Roadster continues to face delays. The Model X, on the other hand, forfeits some performance in favor of more space for passengers and cargo.

As gasoline prices rise around the world, with drastic increases in the U.S., many drivers are considering electric vehicles as a solution to inflation. However, when switching to an electric car, an important factor is the maximum range on a single charge and the number of recharging stations in a given location or region. Due to these conditions working in its favor, Tesla orders have doubled. That leaves a whole new category of electric vehicle buyers looking for a variety of features in a Tesla, from affordability to software to design.

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The Tesla Model S is the distance and range champion, estimated for 405 miles of range on a single charge, according to the company. That’s more than the total range of similar gasoline engines in its class, making the Model S a premier option for people looking to make a switch. The Model X has significantly less range, with an estimated 348 miles of distance on a single charge. With Tesla’s Supercharger network offering many charging locations in the United States, both models’ range is sufficient for the average user. It is important to note, though, that Tesla’s ‘Plaid’ versions of the Model S and X vehicles sacrifice maximum range in favor of performance and speed.

The Model S Has Superior Range, At A Lower Cost

Tesla Group Cars and Logo

It’s a rare occurrence that the cheaper option has superior range, but that’s exactly what the Tesla Model S provides at a sub six-figure price tag. Since the batteries that power Tesla cars degrade over time — like all rechargeable batteries — it’s necessary to purchase the electric vehicle that meets a buyer’s needs at the time of sale. In fact, it’s best to overestimate the required range of a vehicle with the expectation that it will decrease due to external factors like lifespan, temperature, and the frequency of charging. With that said, the 348-mile range of the Model X is a standout option for drivers who will make use of the SUV’s extra space for passengers and cargo.

Aside from the maximum range, there are key differentiating factors between the Model S and Model X electric cars. The Model S is the cheaper and quicker option – starting at just under $100,000, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Both vehicles are rated at a 155 mph top speed with all-wheel drive motors, but because the Model X is heavier, it’s slower off the line — the SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. That extra weight corresponds to additional room in the cabin, with seven seats and 88 cubic feet of storage capacity. It also comes at an additional cost — the Model X is roughly $15,000 more expensive than the base Model S. Potential Tesla customers will have to take all these factors into consideration before deciding which one to buy.