PlugVoltage

Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in France

France uses Type E/C sockets at 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz. Dual-voltage (100–240V) devices need only a plug adapter; single-voltage US devices need a converter.

Voltage
230⁠V
Frequency
50⁠Hz
Plug type
Type E/C
US plug
Adapter needed
Reviewed
2026-07-17

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France runs 230V — nearly double the US 120V. Dual-voltage gear needs only an adapter; single-voltage US devices need a converter.

Fast checks for France

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersVoltage-safe on 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.Pack a Type E/C plug adapter.
120V-only appliances230V 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 E/C in the country data.Adapter choice is about pin shape only; it never changes voltage.

France at a glance

Voltage230⁠V
Frequency50⁠Hz
Plug typesType E/C
Voltage zoneHIGH
US plug fits?No — needs adapter

Plug types used in France

Type E Reference shape and compatible sockets Type C Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type E · grounded Type C

France runs 230V at 50Hz with Type E sockets that accept the Europlug (Type C). Grounded Type F plugs are compatible with Type E sockets, but US single-voltage gear still needs a converter and US plugs need an adapter.

Your devices in France

Hair Dryer No MacBook Pro Charger (USB-C Power Adapter) Adapter Only iPhone Charger Adapter Only CPAP Machine Adapter Only Curling Iron Converter Needed Laptop Charger Adapter Only Electric Shaver Adapter Only Nintendo Switch Charger Adapter Only
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Get a travel adapter for France(opens in new tab)

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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See the best travel adapters for France →

France outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in France without a converter?

Yes. Phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V) — you only need a plug adapter (Type E/C).

Is 230V dangerous for US devices?

Only for single-voltage (120V-only) devices like hair dryers — those need a voltage converter. Dual-voltage gear is fine on an adapter.

What plug type does France use?

France uses Type E/C sockets at 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.

Related

Adapter vs converter · What "100–240V" means
Nearby: United Kingdom · Germany · Ireland · Netherlands
Travelling to France? From United States · From United Kingdom

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.