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Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in China

China uses Type A/C/I sockets at 220⁠V / 50⁠Hz. Dual-voltage (100–240V) devices need only a plug adapter; mismatched single-voltage appliances must not be connected directly. Replace high-power heating appliances with a model rated for the destination.

Voltage
220⁠V
Frequency
50⁠Hz
Plug type
Type A/C/I
US plug
Often fits
Reviewed
2026-06-17

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China runs 220V — nearly double the US 120V. Dual-voltage gear needs only an adapter; mismatched single-voltage appliances must not be connected directly. Replace high-power heating appliances with a model rated for the destination.

Fast checks for China

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersVoltage-safe on 220⁠V / 50⁠Hz.US plugs often fit; still confirm the charger label.
120V-only appliances220V is not compatible with a 120V-only device.Use a converter only for low-watt devices; replace high-watt heat tools.
Plug shapeSockets are Type A/C/I in the country data.Adapter choice is about pin shape only; it never changes voltage.

China at a glance

Voltage220⁠V
Frequency50⁠Hz
Plug typesType A/C/I
Voltage zoneHIGH
US plug fits?Often yes

Plug types used in China

Type A Reference shape and compatible sockets Type C Reference shape and compatible sockets Type I Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type A Type C Type I · grounded

China runs 220V at 50Hz and accepts three plug types: Type I (its own grounded standard, near-identical to Australia), Type A (flat blades, common in older buildings) and Type C (Europlug). US single-voltage devices need a converter; the plug may fit (Type A) but the 220V will damage them.

Your devices in China

Hair Dryer No MacBook Pro Charger (USB-C Power Adapter) Check Rating iPhone Charger Check Rating CPAP Machine Check Label Curling Iron Converter Needed Laptop Charger Check Rating Electric Shaver Check Rating Nintendo Switch Charger Check Rating
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Safety check: a plug adapter only changes plug shape. It does not convert voltage, so confirm your device label before buying.

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China outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in China without a converter?

If the actual input label says 100-240V and supports the local frequency, no voltage converter is needed. A typical charger profile does not verify your own unit. Chargers rated (100–240V) — you only need a plug adapter.

Is 220V dangerous for US devices?

Do not connect a mismatched single-voltage appliance directly. For high-power heating appliances use a local-voltage model, not a travel converter workaround. Confirm the actual input label, frequency and grounding even for a 100-240V charger.

What plug type does China use?

China uses Type A/C/I sockets at 220⁠V / 50⁠Hz.

Related

Adapter vs converter · What "100–240V" means
Nearby: Japan · South Korea
Travelling to China? From United States

Guidance only — not professional electrical advice. Always confirm against your device's label before plugging in. Local wiring (especially in hotels and older buildings) can vary.