Power Plugs & Voltage in China
In China, the standard voltage is 220V at 50Hz, and plug types A, C, I are used.
Your plugs (Type A) fit China's sockets directly.
China runs much higher than home. A single-voltage 120V appliance can be damaged — you'd need a voltage converter. Dual-voltage devices (100–240V) are still fine.
Check your charger Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (look for “INPUT: 100–240V” on the label). Those only ever need a plug adapter, never a voltage converter. High-wattage items with heating elements (hair dryers, straighteners, kettles) are the usual exception.China mains: 220V, 50 Hz.
Note Sockets commonly accept Type A, C and I plugs. Type I is the same 3-pin shape as Australia.
Plug types in China
2 flat parallel pins (ungrounded, North America / Japan)
2 round pins (Europlug, fits most of Europe)
2-3 flat pins in a V-shape (Australia / China / Argentina)
Many modern chargers, laptops, phones and cameras are dual-voltage: their label reads INPUT: 100–240V. Those work anywhere in the world with just a plug adapter — no voltage converter needed. Only single-voltage, high-wattage devices (hair dryers, travel kettles, straighteners) are a real concern in China’s 220V supply. Always check the label on your own device.
How to check what you need for China
- 01 Pick your home country in the checker above.
- 02 See instantly whether your plugs fit China’s Types A, C & I sockets, and whether the 220V supply is a concern.
- 03 Read the label on each device — 100–240V means a plug adapter is all you need.
Frequently asked questions
What plug type is used in China?
China uses Types A, C & I plugs. Sockets commonly accept Type A, C and I plugs. Type I is the same 3-pin shape as Australia.
What voltage is China?
The standard mains voltage in China is 220V at 50Hz. Most modern chargers and laptops are dual-voltage (100–240V) and work fine; single-voltage appliances from a country with very different voltage may need a converter.
Do I need an adapter for China from the US?
China accepts US-style Type A/B plugs, so a plug adapter may not be needed — but check the voltage: the US is 120V and China is 220V. Use the checker above for your exact home country.
Do I need an adapter for China from the UK?
Yes. UK Type G plugs don't fit China's Types A, C & I sockets, so you'll need a plug adapter. Voltage is 220V, the same as the UK, so no converter is needed.