This page is for travelers living in the United States. I live in another country. from US to

China

A C I 220 V 50 Hz

In China, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type A, type C and type I are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

Qinfong contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.

• Yes, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type A, C and I in China.
• You also need a voltage converter.
• Be extra careful with certain devices because of the difference in frequency.

Do your power plugs fit in China?

In China, they use power sockets (outlets) of type A, C and I. In the United States, you have plugs A and B. You need a power plug adapter in China for sockets type A, C and I. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.

A A B Socket type A does not fit your plugs B C A B Socket type C does not fit your plugs A and B I A B Socket type I does not fit your plugs A and B

• Always pack a 3-to-2 prong adapter to fit your plugs B into sockets type A.

Buy a power plug (travel) adapter

We don't sell power plug adapters. We refer you to Amazon, where you will find a great selection of travel adapters.

You need to look for a power plug adapter for sockets type A, type C and type I. Alternatively, choose a world travel adapter that fits multiple sockets, in case you travel more often. Because you need a voltage converter as well (see below), you might want to use a combined travel adapter/voltage converter.

Voltage converter needed in China?

The standard voltage in China (220 V) is much higher than the voltage level your devices typically operate at in the United States (120 V). Without a converter, you risk serious damage to your devices. Additionally, be aware that the frequency in China differs.

• You need a voltage converter in China to protect your devices!
• Try to find a voltage converter that can also change the frequency.

220 V 50 Hz 120 V 60 Hz

A voltage converter will ensure a safe input voltage level for your devices in China. You can find voltage converters at Amazon. Because you also need a power plug adapter, you might want a combined plug adapter/voltage converter.

Be warned if your converter cannot change the frequency. It is not advisable to use your devices. But if you do (at your own risk), exercise special caution with motorized devices and those containing electronic chips, such as clocks, shavers, and medical devices.

Are you interested in learning more about China Power Cable? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

To be sure, check the label on your devices. Some devices never need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the device can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc. For these devices you will only need a power plug adapter.

Need anything else?

Check out our checklist

Check if you have packed everything for your trip at our TRAVELER'S CHECKLIST!

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a power plug adapter in China?Yes, if you live in the United States, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type A, C and I in China. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.Do I need a voltage converter in China?You need a voltage converter in China to protect your devices! The standard voltage in China (220 V) is much higher than the voltage level your devices typically operate at in the United States (120 V). Without a converter, you risk serious damage to your devices. Additionally, be aware that the frequency in China differs.

Voltage in China is 220V/50HZ

Sockets & Plugs

In Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, the common power voltage is 220 Volt 50 Hz AC, but in Taiwan, electronic devices often work with the electricity supply voltage of 110V/60HZ.
 

Is Outlet Adaptor Needed in China?

As the shapes of sockets and voltage vary among countries, a portable plug adaptor is usually necessary. It can be purchased in your local country from stores like Franzus or electronics stores such as RadioShack and Best Buy. Also you can buy it in China.

Chargers of most electronic devices like cell phones, tablets, and cameras can function normally in the wide power voltage of 110~240V. Most hotels ranking above 3 stars in China provide electrical outlets of both 110V and 220V in the bathrooms, though in guest rooms usually only 220V sockets are available.
 

What Power Sockets are Used in China?

There are two kinds of sockets widely used in Mainland China: type A and type I. The type A can also accept plugs of type C or F, which are commonly seen in most European countries.

In China, this kind of outlets has two holes of the same shape and size. Plugs that match this socket are commonly used in US, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Philippines, Colombia, Thailand, Vietnam, Panama… But you should notice that there is a kind of two-blade plug with one end larger than the other. They can't be used in China without an adaptor. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and Fiji use electronic devices of this plug shape. Sometimes, the blade at the top is missed, but it can still function safely in Mainland China. This kind of socket is widely seen in most European countries, like Russia, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Finland, France, Sweden, and Spain, as well as South Korea.  

Sockets in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan

Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan use different socket types from the Mainland China. In Hong Kong, British Standard outlets, also known as type G, are widely used. People coming from countries like UK, Ireland, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Maldives, Nigeria, and Uganda can charge most of their electronic devices without an adaptor in Hong Kong. Type C or F is the universal socket in Macau while the plug shapes of type B can be well compatible with the outlets in Taiwan.

Type G used in Hong Kong
Type C & F used in Macau
Type B used in Taiwan  

Electricity Voltage around the World

Over 30 countries including those in North America use a voltage of 110V~130V, while another 120 countries including most of Europe use a voltage of 220V~230V. The following list shows electricity voltage of countries around the world for your reference:

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Control Cable.