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Switzerland Plugs, outlets & travel adapters
Switzerland uses Type C and J sockets. The mains supply is 230 V at 50 Hz.
Plugbert's take Swiss sockets are recessed and hexagonal. A regular Europlug fits; a chunky Schuko does not.
Do you need a travel adapter for Switzerland?
It depends on where your plugs come from.
🇺🇸 From the United States
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United States (Type A and B) don't fit the Type C and J sockets in Switzerland. A Type C (Europlug) adapter fits the listed socket families there. For grounded devices, get a Type J (Swiss) 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.
Switzerland uses 230 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 Switzerland in full🇬🇧 From the United Kingdom
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United Kingdom (Type G) don't fit the Type C and J sockets in Switzerland. A Type C (Europlug) adapter fits the listed socket families there. For grounded devices, get a Type J (Swiss) 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.
No voltage converter needed. Both countries use 230 V.
United Kingdom to Switzerland in fullFrom other countries
Somewhere else?
Sockets you'll find in Switzerland
What to expect in Switzerland
A Europlug can fit; a Schuko plug is a different case
Switzerland Tourism confirms 230 V, 50 Hz and Type C/J plugs. A slim two-pin Type C Europlug fits compatible Type J outlets. For a small charger that does not require earth, a suitable Europlug adapter is an option.
For grounded equipment, choose a Swiss Type J adapter that accepts your own plug and preserves the earth connection. Electrical Safety First identifies J's third pin. A two-pin adapter cannot provide that connection.
Bringing an adapter from France or Germany
Do not assume that everything sold as “European” fits. Switzerland Tourism's German-language advice explicitly says Schuko plugs do not fit Swiss outlets. A grounded E/F adapter for France or Germany therefore needs a separate Swiss compatibility check.
For a universal product, look for documented Type J output and supported inputs. As a specification example, SKROSS lists J output and a 10 A limit for one adapter. That product does not transform voltage; this is a specification reference, not a tested recommendation.
Check devices for 230 V and 50 Hz
100–240 V, 50/60 Hz includes Switzerland's listed supply. A US 120 V-only hair dryer cannot use it directly through a travel adapter. Check your input label, the adapter's load limit and the device manufacturer's guidance before packing it.
Will your devices work in Switzerland?
Sockets in Switzerland supply 230 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.
Plug twins
These countries list the same plug types and a similar voltage range. Check each guide for socket variants and local exceptions.