China Power Plugs & Sockets: Types, Voltage & Adapters

Mainland China uses Type A, C and I sockets with 220V/50Hz electricity. You may need a plug adapter, depending on your home plug type. Most phone and laptop chargers support 100–240V, but always check the label. Here’s what to pack and how to keep your devices charged in China.

China Power Plug Types, Voltage & Frequency

Mainland China uses Type A, C and I sockets, although compatibility varies between outlets:

• Type A: two flat, parallel pins.
• Type C: two round pins.
• Type I: two angled flat pins, usually with a third flat grounding pin.

Hong Kong and Macau commonly use Type G, the three-rectangular-pin plug also used in the UK. For mainland China, bring an adapter that accepts your device’s plug and fits Type I sockets.

The electricity supply is 220V at 50Hz. Check each device’s input label: 100–240V, 50/60Hz means it supports this supply. A plug adapter changes the connection, not the voltage. Devices rated only for 110–120V require a suitable voltage converter.

Where to Buy China Plug Adapters and Voltage Converters

Buy a China-compatible travel adapter before departure from an electronics shop or online retailer. Check that it accepts your home plug and has a Type I connection for mainland China. If your appliance requires grounding, choose an adapter that preserves it.

In China, look for adapters at electronics shops or on Taobao and JD.com. Airport shops may also stock them, and some hotels lend adapters to guests, check availability with reception.

Most phone and laptop chargers marked 100–240V only need a plug adapter. For a 110–120V-only appliance, a converter must support China’s 220V input and the appliance’s wattage and type. High-powered appliances such as hair dryers may need bulky converters, so using a hotel-provided or compatible appliance is often simpler.

What to Check Before Buying an Adapter

Check the adapter’s supported plug types and maximum power rating. If your appliance needs grounding, the adapter must preserve that connection. Built-in USB ports and the AC socket have separate power limits, so check both specifications. A compact travel adapter may be suitable for chargers but unsuitable for high-powered appliances such as hair dryers.

Where to Charge Your Devices in China

Look for power sockets or USB charging ports in airports, hotels and on many high-speed trains. Availability varies, so bring your own cable, charger and a China-compatible plug adapter.

Public USB ports may charge more slowly than your own charger. Check whether the port takes USB-A or USB-C, as your cable needs to match. Some venues also offer wireless charging, but don’t rely on finding a compatible pad.

For days spent sightseeing, carry a charged power bank. If you’re taking a domestic flight in China, it must have a clear 3C/CCC mark, must not be a recalled model and must travel in your carry-on baggage. Choose one rated 100Wh or less and check your airline’s rules before flying.

How China’s Plugs Compare with Other Countries

Whether your devices will work in China depends on plug shape, voltage and frequency. A plug may fit a socket without the appliance being compatible with the electricity supply.

Mainland China uses Type A, C and I sockets at 220V/50Hz. The table below compares common plugs used by travellers and what to check before departure.

Socket designs vary between buildings, so a China-compatible travel adapter is a useful backup, even if your two-pin plug fits some outlets. Never force a plug into a socket or remove its grounding pin.

Check Voltage Separately from Plug Type

China’s 220V supply is higher than the domestic supply in the US, Canada and Japan. A compatible plug does not make a 100–120V-only appliance safe to use.

• Label says 100–240V, 50/60Hz: compatible with China’s electricity supply; an adapter may still be needed.
• Label says 220–240V, 50Hz or 50/60Hz: compatible with China’s supply; check the plug shape.
• Label says only 100V, 110V or 120V: do not connect it directly. Use a suitable voltage converter or leave the appliance at home.
• Label says only 60Hz: check the manufacturer’s guidance, particularly for appliances with motors or timers. A standard plug adapter does not change frequency.

For a trip covering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, choose an adapter with both Type I and Type G connections, and check that it accepts your own devices’ plugs.

China Charging Checklist: What to Pack

• A China-compatible plug adapter: check that it accepts your home plug and connects to Type I sockets.
• A multi-port USB charger: choose one marked 100–240V, 50/60Hz to charge several devices from one socket.
• The right cables: pack a compatible cable for each phone, tablet, camera or laptop.
• A power bank: for domestic flights, choose a model rated 100Wh or less with a clear 3C/CCC mark, check it has not been recalled and keep it in your carry-on baggage.
• A Type G connection if needed: Hong Kong and Macau commonly use different sockets from mainland China.

China Travel Guide