China Plug & Voltage Checker
Check whether your devices will work in China — and what you need to bring.
Adapter needed
Voltage warning
United StatesType A / B plug • 120V • 60Hz
ChinaType A / C / I socket • 220V • 50Hz
Plug Adapter
YES — You need oneYour US plug may fit some sockets, but a universal travel adapter is recommended.
Your plug
China Sockets
Voltage Transformer
CHECK YOUR DEVICEChina uses 220V. A 120V-only hair dryer needs a voltage transformer.
INPUT: 100–240V, 50/60HzNo transformer needed
INPUT: 120V, 60HzTransformer required
Check the INPUT label on your charger or appliance before plugging it in.
Common Devices
🔌
Phone & laptop chargers
Usually dual voltage
💨
Hair dryers & straighteners
Check voltage carefully
🪒
Electric shavers
Check the input label
🩺
CPAP & medical devices
Confirm manufacturer specifications
China Plug Types
Type A
Two flat parallel pins
Type C
Two round pins
Type I
Two flat angled pins + one vertical
China commonly uses Type A, C and I sockets. Socket availability may vary.
Quick Country Examples
USA
Adapter recommended; transformer depends on device
UK
Adapter needed; usually no transformer
Australia
Adapter may fit; usually no transformer
EU countries
Adapter needed; usually no transformer
Japan
Adapter recommended; check 100V devices
Adapter vs. Transformer
Adapter = changes plug shapeLets your plug fit the wall socket.
Transformer = changes voltageConverts voltage to protect your device.
Safety Tips
- Never force a plug into a socket.
- Avoid cheap high-power adapters and extensions.
- Hotel sockets vary — bring a quality universal adapter.
- Check wattage before using heating appliances.
Traveler tip: Phones, tablets and laptops are usually dual voltage, but high-power heating appliances need extra care.
Frequently Asked Questions About China Plugs & Power
What plug types are used in China?
Mainland China mainly uses three socket types: Type A (two flat parallel pins), Type C (two round pins), and Type I (three flat angled pins). A universal travel adapter covers all of these configurations.
Do I need a voltage converter for China?
China operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. If your device is dual voltage (marked INPUT: 100-240V, like most laptops and smartphones), you only need a plug adapter. If your device is single voltage (like a 110V US hair dryer), you will need a power transformer.
How do I know if my device is dual voltage?
Check the small print near the power input on the device itself or its charger — it will say something like "INPUT: 100-240V~50/60Hz" for dual voltage, or a single number like "120V~60Hz" for single voltage. When in doubt, check the manufacturer's website rather than guessing.