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China Plugs, outlets & travel adapters
China uses Type A, C and I sockets. The mains supply is 220 V at 50 Hz.
Plugbert's take China keeps it straightforward: Type A, C, I at 220 V.
Do you need a travel adapter for China?
It depends on where your plugs come from.
🇺🇸 From the United States
Some plugs from the United States fit the Type A, C and I sockets in China and some don't, so pack an adapter. A Type A (US 2-pin) adapter fits 1 of the 3 listed socket families there. For grounded devices, get a Type I (Australian) adapter for a compatible grounded outlet instead; it does not fit every listed outlet. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
China uses 220 V, much higher than the 120 V in the United States. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. For single-voltage devices, follow the manufacturer's guidance on conversion; using a suitable local device may be simpler.
United States to China in full🇬🇧 From the United Kingdom
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United Kingdom (Type G) don't fit the Type A, C and I sockets in China. A Type A (US 2-pin) adapter fits 1 of the 3 listed socket families there. For grounded devices, get a Type I (Australian) adapter for a compatible grounded outlet instead; it does not fit every listed outlet. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
China uses 220 V and the United Kingdom uses 230 V, but similar nominal voltages do not guarantee compatibility. Check that your device's input rating covers the destination supply.
United Kingdom to China in fullFrom other countries
Somewhere else?
Sockets you'll find in China
What to expect in China
Mainland China: check the outlet, not just the country name
Electrical Safety First lists Type A, C and I for mainland China, with 220 V, 50 Hz electricity. This guide covers mainland China; use the separate Hong Kong guide for that destination.
An ungrounded two-pin charger may fit a compatible A or C outlet directly. That does not mean every Chinese outlet accepts it. A grounded US Type B plug needs an adapter; its third pin does not fit a plain Type A socket. For equipment requiring earth, choose a grounded Type I connection that accepts your home plug and preserves grounding.
Familiar holes can hide a different voltage
Beijing's government warns travelers to check appliance voltage before using Chinese electricity. A US plug fitting a socket does not make a 120 V-only appliance suitable for 220 V.
An input label covering 220 V and 50 Hz, such as 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, meets the listed supply requirements. Check your own charger, including any detachable power cord. A plug adapter does not convert voltage.
What “universal” needs to include
Look for documented mainland-China socket compatibility and a suitable wall-side plug. For grounded equipment, check earth continuity as well as supported input plugs. A two-pin output cannot provide earth, and a multi-hole wall plate is not evidence of voltage conversion. Use the product's stated current and power limits rather than its travel-country marketing list.
Will your devices work in China?
Sockets in China supply 220 V. Find the "input" line on each device or its charger. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. Check that the input frequency also covers 50 Hz. An adapter changes the plug shape, not the voltage or frequency. For switchable devices, follow the manufacturer's instructions before plugging in.
Often rated 100–240 V; confirm on the charger: phone charger, laptop charger, camera battery charger.
Check the label first: electric toothbrush, electric shaver, CPAP machine, hair straightener / curler.
Usually single voltage: hair dryer, kettle / coffee maker, anything with a heating element.