"Why doesn't my plug work in China?" This question bothers many travellers. China uses Type I three-pin sockets (220V/50Hz), which is very different from EU and US standards. So today let's talk about China's plug types, voltage & AC frequency, adapter and transformer purchases, China's emergency charging tips, and compare global plug standards, so that you don't have to worry about charging when travelling in China. From identifying sockets to fast charging, one article solves all power problems!
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China Power Plug Types, Voltage & AC Frequency
When travelling in China, you will come across three main types of power plugs: namely Type I (3 flat pins plugged in at an angle), Type G (3 rectangular pins), and Type A (2 flat pins), and Type C (2-pin round plugs). While all regions use 220V voltage and 50Hz AC frequency, the plug standards vary significantly: specifically, Mainland China generally uses the new GB Type I, whereas Hong Kong and Macau use Type G, and old buildings may still have Type A or European Type C two-pin round plugs.
Therefore, it is highly recommended that tourists bring a multi-function power adapter. This is because Type I and Type G are incompatible, and moreover, old buildings have mixed socket types. For maximum convenience, a multi-function converter that supports Type I/G (preferably one with a USB interface) can solve all charging needs. Although China's voltage is stable (220V/50Hz), you still need to pay attention to voltage conversion when using non-wide voltage appliances.
Where to Buy China Plug Adapters and Voltage Converters
Travellers to China can buy plug adapters and voltage converters in different places. Airports and hotels usually have adapters for sale, but they tend to be more expensive (about 80-150 RMB). Convenience stores such as Watsons and electronics stores in large cities also sell basic adapters. For better prices, consider online platforms such as Taobao or JD.com, where prices range from 20-50 RMB. International travellers can order from Amazon or AliExpress before travelling - just search for "China travel adapter type I" or "universal plug converter".
If you need a voltage converter (for 110V devices), check the appliance label first - many modern electronics (such as laptops and mobile phones) support 100-240V voltage and only need an adapter. For non-dual voltage appliances (such as hair dryers), buy a step-down transformer online or at large electronics markets (recommended brands: Simran, BESTEK). You can search "buy China plug adapter 220V" or "type I converter" to get accurate results. Please always check the product specifications to ensure it is compatible with the Chinese 220V/50Hz system.
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Universal Emergency Charging
Although socket standards and voltages vary from country to country, new charging technologies are making cross-border charging easier. Most new mobile phone and computer chargers support a wide voltage range of 100-240V, so foreign tourists only need to prepare a plug converter to use their own chargers in China.
Wireless charging is particularly convenient for tourists. As long as your phone supports the Qi wireless charging standard (such as iPhone 8 and above), you can find wireless charging pads in many airport lounges, Starbucks coffee shops and high-end hotels in China. However, please note that wireless charging in public places is usually slower and suitable for emergency use.
In China, USB charging ports can be found everywhere. Almost all hotels, high-speed rail seats, and airport waiting areas provide USB-A ports (normal Android phone ports), and more and more new places are also equipped with Type-C ports. But please note: 1) These public USB ports charge slowly; 2) It is best to check the port safety before use. It is recommended that tourists carry their own fast charging heads and power banks for more reliable use.
Global Power Plug Standards
There are many plug specifications around the world, and the styles are mainly divided into parallel double-fan type (NEMA), triangular flat type (GB), and round double-pin type (EU), among others. Additionally, the global voltage is mainly divided into two standards: low voltage (100-130V) and high voltage (220-240V). So, let's have a look at the specific differences in plug specifications in different regions:
Asia
Country/Region | Voltage | Standard | Plug Type |
Mainland China | 220V | GB | Type I |
Hong Kong | 220V | BS | Type G |
Macau | 220V | BS | Type G |
Japan | 100V | JIS | Type A/B |
South Korea | 220V | KS | Type F |
Taiwan | 110V | CNS | Type A/B |
Thailand | 220V | TIS | Type A/B/C |
Singapore | 230V | SS | Type G |
Malaysia | 240V | MS | Type G |
India | 230V | IS | Type D/M |
Europe
Country/Region | Voltage | Standard | Plug Type |
UK | 230V | BS | Type G |
Germany | 230V | EU | Type F |
France | 230V | EU | Type E |
Italy | 230V | EU | Type L |
Spain | 230V | EU | Type F |
Switzerland | 230V | SEV | Type J |
Russia | 220V | GOST | Type F/C |
Netherlands | 230V | EU | Type F |
Portugal | 230V | EU | Type F |
Turkey | 230V | EU | Type F |
Americas
Country/Region | Voltage | Standard | Plug Type |
USA | 120V | NEMA | Type A/B |
Canada | 120V | NEMA | Type A/B |
Mexico | 127V | NOM | Type A/B |
Brazil | 127/220V | NBR | Type N |
Argentina | 220V | IRAM | Type I |
Chile | 220V | SEC | Type L |
Colombia | 110V | NTC | Type A/B |
Africa
Country/Region | Voltage | Standard | Plug Type |
South Africa | 230V | SABS | Type M/N |
Egypt | 220V | EU | Type C/F |
Morocco | 220V | EU | Type C/E |
Nigeria | 230V | SON | Type D/G |
China Power Plug FAQs
Q: What kind of plug is used in China?
A: China mainly uses Type I (GB 2099.3 standard), three-prong flat plug, but some areas also accept Type A/C plugs.
Q: Can I use EU/US plugs directly in China?
A: No, you cannot use EU/US plugs directly in China. Because the plug types are different, you need a power adapter to adapt to the sockets in China.
Q: Can I use 110V devices in China?
A: Only if your device supports 220V (check the label). Otherwise, you need a voltage converter.
Q: Where can I buy a plug converter in China?
A: Convenience stores (Watsons), supermarkets, or online stores (Taobao/JD.com). Airports may sell overpriced converters.
Q: Can the iPhone charger be used in China?
A: Yes! Apple chargers support 100-240V, but you may need a Type I converter.
