✈️ TravelSmarter
China · Type A/C/I · 220V

China Power Plug & Voltage Guide

China uses the same plug shape as the US, but runs on 220V — check your device's voltage rating.

Want the full guide? Get a PDF with plug details and adapter-vs-converter guidance for China — free.

China at a glance

Plug typesA, C, I
Voltage220V
Frequency50Hz
US standardType A/B, 120V, 60Hz

Type A (flat parallel pins, ungrounded (US/Canada/Japan style)), Type C (two round pins, ungrounded ("Europlug")), Type I (two flat angled pins (Australia/NZ/China style)).

Frequently asked questions

What plug type does China use?

China uses Type A (flat parallel pins, ungrounded (US/Canada/Japan style)), Type C (two round pins, ungrounded ("Europlug")), Type I (two flat angled pins (Australia/NZ/China style)).

Do I need a plug adapter for China from the US?

No — China uses the same plug shape as the US, so a standard US plug fits without an adapter.

What voltage does China run on?

China runs on 220V at 50Hz, notably different from the US standard of 120V — check that your device is rated for this voltage before plugging in directly.

Do I need a voltage converter for China?

Most modern electronics (phone and laptop chargers) are dual-voltage (100-240V) and only need a plug adapter, not a converter. Single-voltage, high-wattage devices like hair dryers or straighteners may need an actual voltage converter — check the label near the plug prongs for the input voltage range.