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Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in Germany

Germany uses Type C/F sockets at 230⁠V / 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
230⁠V
Frequency
50⁠Hz
Plug type
Type C/F
US plug
Adapter needed
Reviewed
2026-07-16

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Germany runs 230V — 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 Germany

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

Germany at a glance

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

Plug types used in Germany

Type C Reference shape and compatible sockets Type F Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type C Type F · grounded

Standard 230V at 50Hz. Sockets accept the ungrounded Type C and the grounded Type F (Schuko). Type C plugs from across Continental Europe fit; the UK Type G does not. A US 120V single-voltage appliance needs a step-down voltage converter, not just an adapter.

Your devices in Germany

Hair Dryer No MacBook Pro Charger (USB-C Power Adapter) Adapter Only iPhone Charger Adapter Only CPAP Machine Check Label 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 Germany(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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Germany outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in Germany 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 (Type C/F).

Is 230V 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 Germany use?

Germany uses Type C/F sockets at 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.

Related

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