1 World Standards Compared

RegionVoltage / HzPlug type(s)Adapter needed from China?
China (mainland)220V / 50HzA, I—
USA & Canada120V / 60HzA, BYes (plug + voltage converter for 120V gear)
Europe (EU)230V / 50HzC, FYes (plug only)
United Kingdom230V / 50HzGYes (plug only)
Australia & NZ230V / 50HzINo (same as China Type I)
Japan100V / 50–60HzAPlug fits; voltage differs
Hong Kong220V / 50HzGYes (plug only)

Voltages near 220–240V need only a plug adapter. Coming from 120V regions, high-wattage devices also need a converter. Source: IEC world plug chart; verify before travel.

World plug types A, I, C compared — Type A (two flat pins, North America/Japan/China), Type I (three angled pins, Australia/China/Argentina), Type C (two round pins, Europe/most of the world)
World plug comparison — mainland China uses Type A (two flat pins) and Type I (three angled pins). Type C (Europe) is shown for context.

2 What to Pack

  • One universal travel adapter covering Type A + I (ideally also C/E/F/G for side trips).
  • A small power strip or multi-USB charger — one adapter feeds several devices at once.
  • Your existing phone/laptop chargers — they're dual-voltage, no converter needed.
  • A power bank for the day — handy on long train rides. China's aviation rule: carry-on only, rated ≤100Wh is fine, 100–160Wh needs airline approval, and the bank should carry a valid 3C mark.
  • Skip the converter unless you're bringing a single-voltage 120V appliance. Buy those locally instead.
A real Chinese wall socket (Type A + I combo) — two flat slots on top, a round earth pin, and two angled flat slots below
What you'll see in the wall — a Chinese Type A + I combo socket. The two flat slots at the top take a Type A plug; the angled pair + earth below take a Type I plug.

3 FAQ

Do I need a voltage converter for my phone? No. Phone and laptop chargers are universal 100–240V. You only need a plug adapter.

Can I use my US hairdryer in China? Only if it's labelled 100–240V (most are not). A 120V-only unit will be damaged — use a converter or buy one locally.

Are UK plugs (Type G) the same as China? No. China uses A and I; the UK, Ireland and Hong Kong use G. Pack a G adapter for Hong Kong.

Will hotel USB ports charge my phone? Often yes, in newer hotels. But carry an adapter as backup — not every room has them.

Where do I buy an adapter on arrival? Convenience stores, airport shops, and e-commerce (see Essential Apps) all stock them. A universal adapter costs a few dollars.

Before you fly: throw the adapter in your carry-on, not checked luggage — you'll want it the moment you land to charge your phone at the airport.

Related: Pre-Trip Checklist · Essential Apps · SIM Card

Fact-checked for 2026 Last updated July 2026 Written by expats in China