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China Power Outlets & Adapters 2026: What Plug, What Voltage

China uses Type A, C, and I plugs at 220V / 50Hz. Most North American devices need an adapter; most European and Asian devices are fine. Universal adapters are widely available at convenience stores for ¥30-50.

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China Power Outlets & Adapters 2026: What Plug, What Voltage cover photo

TL;DR

China uses Type A, Type C, and Type I plugs at 220V / 50Hz. If you are from North America, Japan, or Taiwan you need an adapter. If you are from Europe, the UK, Australia, or most of Asia, you need an adapter too. Universal adapters are widely sold at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) for ¥30-50. Voltage is 220V — most modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers) handle 100-240V automatically.
Plug typesType A (US-style 2-prong), Type C (Euro 2-round), Type I (Australian 3-prong)
Voltage220V / 50Hz
North America devicesNeed an adapter; check if your device is 100-240V compatible
European devicesUsually fine; Type C fits
UK devicesNeed an adapter (Type G)
Universal adapter¥30-50 at convenience stores
Last updated

What plug type does China use?

China uses Type A (US-style 2-prong), Type C (Euro 2-round), and Type I (Australian 3-prong) outlets. The most common is a hybrid that accepts both Type A and Type C. You will see all three in Chinese hotels. The voltage is 220V / 50Hz.

Do I need a power adapter in China?

Most likely yes. If you are from North America, Japan, or Taiwan you need an adapter. If you are from Europe you usually need an adapter. The UK and Australia definitely need an adapter. Universal adapters are widely sold at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) for ¥30-50.

Will my North American device work in China?

Depends on the device. Modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers, camera batteries) usually have a 100-240V / 50-60Hz rating, which works in China (220V / 50Hz) without a converter — just an adapter for the plug. Check the small print on your device's power brick. Older devices or hair tools (curling irons, hair dryers) often need both an adapter AND a voltage converter.

Is the voltage in China 220V?

Yes — 220V / 50Hz. This is higher than North America (120V / 60Hz) and the same as Europe and most of Asia. Most modern electronics are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work fine. Single-voltage 110V devices (old hair dryers, some kitchen appliances) need a step-down transformer to avoid burning out.

Where can I buy an adapter in China?

Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, Quanjia). Electronics markets (Huaqiangbei in Shenzhen, Zhongguancun in Beijing). Most 4-star+ hotels have a small stock of universal adapters at the front desk. Online via Taobao or JD.com.

Is it safe to use a non-grounded adapter in China?

For low-power devices (phone charger, laptop) yes. For high-power devices (kettle, hair dryer), use a properly grounded adapter. Cheap adapters often lack grounding. Pay ¥80-150 for a name-brand universal adapter (Anker, Baseus) for safety.

Do Chinese hotels have USB outlets?

Modern Chinese hotels (4-star+) typically have USB outlets at the bed and the desk. Hostels and 2-3 star hotels have fewer. Bring a multi-port USB charger as backup. The standard 5V USB-A port is increasingly replaced by USB-C PD; bring a compatible cable.

Can I charge my phone at a Chinese train station?

Yes — every Chinese high-speed train has power outlets at every seat. Train stations have USB charging stations in waiting areas. Most airports have charging stations throughout.

What about power banks?

Power banks (充电宝) are widely sold in China (¥50-200 for 10,000-20,000 mAh). The Chinese-made Anker, Romoss, and Xiaomi brands are reliable. Note: lithium power banks can't be checked on flights — they go in carry-on only.

Is there anything China-specific I should know about power?

Yes — public hot water dispensers (热水机) in hotels and train stations are 220V and used for drinking water. They take Chinese-style 5L water bottles. The outlet is a 3-prong Type I; bring a universal adapter if you want to use the kettle in your room.

Frequently asked questions

What plug type does China use?
Type A (US 2-prong), Type C (Euro 2-round), and Type I (Australian 3-prong). The most common outlet is a hybrid that accepts both A and C. Voltage is 220V / 50Hz.
Do I need an adapter in China?
Most likely yes. North America, Japan, Taiwan, UK, and Australia all need adapters. Europe usually needs one too. Universal adapters are widely sold at convenience stores for ¥30-50.
Will my 110V device work in China?
Modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers) are usually dual-voltage 100-240V and work fine. Old hair dryers, curling irons, and single-voltage appliances need a step-down transformer to avoid burning out.
Where can I buy an adapter in China?
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart), electronics markets (Huaqiangbei in Shenzhen, Zhongguancun in Beijing), 4-star+ hotel front desks, or online via Taobao or JD.com.
Is a universal adapter safe to use in China?
For low-power devices (phone charger, laptop, camera) yes. For high-power devices (kettle, hair dryer) use a name-brand adapter with proper grounding. Cheap ungrounded adapters can be a fire risk.
Do Chinese hotels have USB outlets?
Most 4-star+ hotels have USB outlets at the bed and desk. Hostels and 2-3 star hotels have fewer. Bring a multi-port USB charger as backup.
Can I charge on Chinese trains?
Yes — every high-speed train has power outlets at every seat. Older trains may have only shared outlets in carriages. Train stations have USB charging stations.
Can I bring a power bank on a Chinese flight?
Yes in carry-on (power banks can't be checked). Most airlines cap at 20,000 mAh. Larger batteries require airline approval.
Is there a hot water dispenser in every hotel?
Yes — most Chinese hotels have a 热水机 (hot water dispenser) in the hallway. They dispense boiling water for tea or instant noodles. Bring a water bottle and your favorite tea bag.
Do I need a voltage converter in China?
Only for single-voltage 110V devices. Modern dual-voltage devices (100-240V) only need a plug adapter. Check the small print on your device's power brick.
Is the Chinese 220V power stable?
Generally yes in major cities. In rural areas and old buildings, voltage can fluctuate. For sensitive electronics (laptops, cameras), a small UPS or surge protector is recommended.
Can I plug a Chinese device into a foreign outlet?
Same problem in reverse. Chinese devices are designed for 220V. Plugging a 220V Chinese device into a 110V US outlet will not work (the device gets half the voltage it needs). Bring a step-up transformer.

References

  1. Wikipedia: Mains electricity by country
  2. Wikipedia: Chinese standard power plug
  3. IEC: World plugs

Written by

Daniel Park

Rail enthusiast · 200+ China HSR trips

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