Mainland China uses a 220V, 50Hz electricity supply and plug types A, C and I. Check both the shape of your plug and the input rating on your device. A plug adapter changes the connection; it does not convert voltage.
These supply and plug specifications come from Electrical Safety First’s China travel guide. This article covers mainland China; check Hong Kong and Macau separately when packing for a multi-stop trip.
Which plug types are used in China?
| Type | How to recognize it |
|---|---|
| A | Two flat parallel pins. |
| C | Two round pins. |
| I | Angled flat pins; grounded versions include an earth pin. |
Do you need an adapter or a voltage converter?
Read the INPUT label on the charger or appliance, not just its USB output. A device marked 100–240V, 50/60Hz covers China’s supply range and normally needs only a suitable plug adapter. A device rated only for 110–120V must not be connected directly to 220V through a shape-only adapter.
Check these details before packing
- Photograph the input label for each charger or appliance. If the rating is unclear, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Choose an adapter that fits the outlet and preserves any required earth connection. Do not force a plug or remove its earth pin.
- Check the adapter’s current or power rating against the appliance. High-power hair dryers and heaters need particular care.
- For an incompatible appliance, use a suitable local appliance or obtain manufacturer advice on an appropriately rated converter.
Electrical Safety First cautions that converters and transformers have maximum power ratings and that earthing matters. A “universal” label alone does not establish that a product is suitable for every device.
What about US, UK, European or Australian plugs?
Do not decide compatibility from your home country alone. Two chargers bought in the same country can have different voltage ratings, and sockets in a hotel may accept different pin shapes. Match the individual device, adapter and outlet before connecting them.
If you want to inspect the product previously linked in this guide, view the travel-adapter listing and check its current specifications. Price, availability and electrical suitability have not been verified here; the old “limited time” claim has been removed.
A simple packing decision
For a phone or laptop, start with the original charger and its input label. Pack a compatible adapter if the plug shape requires one. For a high-power appliance, ask your accommodation whether a suitable local version is provided before carrying extra equipment.