Photo Credit: YouTubeFor EV shoppers trying to keep costs down, spec sheets reveal only so much.A side-by-side look at the 2027 Chevy Bolt and 2024 Chevy Equinox EV shows how two relatively affordable electric models can end up serving very different needs.In a comparison video posted by EV-focused creators Liv and Patrick of The Electric Duo (@theelectricduo), the pair explained that a week with the new Bolt, combined with nearly two years of Equinox EV ownership, gave them a more useful real-world comparison than sticker prices by themselves.Here's what to knowSize is the most obvious dividing line. The Equinox EV is the longer, roomier vehicle and handles bulky cargo more easily, while the smaller Bolt is simpler to maneuver.AdvertisementAdvertisementPatrick said the two cars "sort of both occupy that affordable EV space," but he also noted that local stock and dealer discounts can make the actual price gap fluctuate more than some shoppers may expect.Charging setup and range also help separate them. The 2027 Bolt they drove has a native NACS port and is rated for 262 miles, while their front-wheel-drive 2024 Equinox EV uses CCS and is rated for 319 miles.The infotainment experience is similar in both. Each uses Android Automotive; neither includes Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and Liv and Patrick said they have adapted to GM's software in daily driving.A commenter described the split this way: "The EQEV is definitely more family oriented with the larger interior and trunk space, but the Bolt is just a smaller, more nimble car."More backgroundBecause Liv is a right leg amputee and also lives with dexterity challenges, she focused closely on practical accessibility details like the door handles, the cabin layout, and how easily important controls could be reached.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor shorter drivers in particular, she said the Bolt stands out: "Everything's very easy to reach."That applied to everyday tasks like cleaning the windshield and using controls around the cabin.Cargo versatility was one area where the Equinox EV stood out. The creators said it could hold a wheelchair with the seats still up, and with the rear seats folded it was able to fit a recumbent trike.They also said the Equinox does not feel as large from the driver's seat as it looks from outside, whereas the Bolt comes across as especially nimble in city driving.What can be done?They urged shoppers to check trim details carefully, since features like a 360-degree camera and Super Cruise are not necessarily included on every version.AdvertisementAdvertisementBuyers should also confirm charging hardware. The Bolt uses NACS, while older Equinox EV models may use CCS, and the creators recommended keeping an adapter on hand either way to preserve more charging options.They also highlighted several day-to-day comfort factors, including door-handle design, legroom, storage cubbies, and screen glare.They added that dealer-installed extras can raise the final price in a hurry.As one commenter put it, "I think they're both great choices, but mostly down to what size car you are after."Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.