Power plug types around the world
Types A to N, 110V or 230V: a world tour of power plugs so you know which adapter to pack.
The main plug types
| Type | Regions | Typical voltage |
|---|---|---|
| A / B | North America, Japan | 100-127V |
| C / E / F | Continental Europe | 220-240V |
| G | UK, Ireland, Hong Kong | 220-240V |
| I | Australia, New Zealand, China | 220-240V |
| D / M | India, South Africa | 220-240V |
An adapter only changes the plug's shape, not the voltage. Check that your device accepts both 110V and 230V (often printed as "INPUT 100-240V" on the charger) before plugging it in — otherwise you need a voltage converter, not just an adapter.
Voltage by region
| Region | Voltage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania | 220-240V | 50 Hz |
| North America, part of South America, Japan | 100-127V | 60 Hz |
What almost always accepts dual voltage
Phone chargers, laptops and most modern electronics run on 100-240V. Hair dryers, straighteners and kettles, on the other hand, are often built for a single voltage — worth checking before you pack them.
Universal adapter: what to check for
- How many plug types it covers (aim for at least A, C, G, I for broad international use).
- Built-in USB ports, handy for cutting down the number of accessories to pack.
- Visible safety certification (CE mark, UL…) — an uncertified bargain adapter is a genuine electrical risk.
A universal adapter is never a voltage converter: it only adapts the pin shape. Plugging a 230V-only device into a 110V outlet (or vice versa) through a plain adapter can damage the device or cause an electrical incident.
Working out the plug type before you leave
| Clue | Where to find it |
|---|---|
| Destination country's plug type | Travel-focused sites, embassies, guidebooks |
| Voltage and frequency a device accepts | The label on the back of the device or its power brick ("INPUT: 100-240V~50/60Hz") |
| Maximum wattage the adapter supports | The adapter's manual — important for a hair dryer or iron |
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