Pick your home country, see exactly which adapter and voltage you need for China. Most of Europe, Asia, and the Americas are fine; the UK and a few others need a Type G adapter.
THE MOST EXPENSIVE TRAVEL MISTAKE
Plugging a 110V device (from US/Japan) into China's 220V socket will instantly fry it . No sparks, no warning, just permanent damage. This costs travelers hundreds of dollars every year.
Example: A ¥2,000 ($300 USD) hairdryer plugged into the wrong voltage = instantly worthless. Check before you plug!
Where Are You From?
Select your home country to see what you need to safely use your devices in China:
Understanding China's Electrical System
220V AC Standard
China's standard voltage is 220V AC at 50 Hz . This is higher than the 110-120V used in Americas, but matches Europe and most of Asia.
Type I Plugs
Chinese sockets use Type I plugs : two parallel flat pins and an optional round ground pin. Different from US/Japanese Type A plugs.
Two Types of Sockets
Most buildings have both types:
- • 2-pin sockets (flat parallel) — Common in older buildings
- • 3-pin sockets (flat parallel + round ground) — Standard in modern buildings
Converter vs Adapter: What's the Difference?
Converter
- Changes voltage (e.g., 110V 220V)
- Required for: Hairdryers, heaters, electric kettles
- Cost: ¥50-150 ($7-20 USD)
- Heavier and bulkier
- Essential if your home voltage ≠ 220V
- Skip this = burnt-out devices
Adapter
- Changes plug shape only (doesn't change voltage)
- Required for: Any device if plugs don't fit
- Cost: ¥5-20 ($1-3 USD)
- Light and compact
- Only needed if plugs physically don't fit
- Enough if your voltage already matches
Where to Buy Converters & Adapters in China
Airport Shops
¥80-150
Quality guaranteed but expensive
Hotel Front Desk
Ask for loan (free)
Free temporary use
Convenience Stores (711/FamilyMart)
¥30-80
Reliable, immediate
Electronics Malls (电子城)
¥20-60
Best selection, negotiable
Online (Taobao/JD.com)
¥15-50
Cheapest, 1-2 day delivery
Large Supermarkets
¥30-70
Decent quality, wide selection
Pro Tips
DO THIS
- • Check your device voltage BEFORE departure
- • Buy converters in your home country (often cheaper)
- • Bring a multi-outlet converter for multiple devices
- • Test converters at home before arrival
- • Ask hotel staff for adapters (often free)
- • Take photos of all plugs at home
DON'T DO THIS
- • Don't guess about voltage - always check!
- • Don't use cheap converters - fire hazard!
- • Don't plug in without adapter/converter
- • Don't leave devices unattended while charging
- • Don't overload converters (max 3-4 devices)
- • Don't forget to test devices after arrival
The Golden Rule
When in doubt, use a converter. A ¥100 ($15 USD) converter is cheap insurance compared to losing a ¥2,000 device. Every year, thousands of travelers still fry their electronics by plugging into the wrong voltage. Don't be one of them! Check this tool before plugging in ANYTHING.