PlugVoltage

Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in United States

United States uses Type A/B sockets at 120⁠V / 60⁠Hz. 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
120⁠V
Frequency
60⁠Hz
Plug type
Type A/B
US plug
Often fits
Reviewed
2026-07-16

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Check one device Get an exact verdict using your device label. Build a trip checklist Check several devices and share the packing verdict. Size a converter Calculate watts and headroom before buying.
United States runs 120V — close to the US 120V. Most US devices work with at most a plug adapter.

Fast checks for United States

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersVoltage-safe on 120⁠V / 60⁠Hz.US plugs often fit; still confirm the charger label.
120V-only appliances120V is close to US voltage, but heat/motor performance can still vary.Check the label before packing a converter.
Plug shapeSockets are Type A/B in the country data.Adapter choice is about pin shape only; it never changes voltage.

United States at a glance

Voltage120⁠V
Frequency60⁠Hz
Plug typesType A/B
Voltage zoneLOW
US plug fits?Often yes

Plug types used in United States

Type A Reference shape and compatible sockets Type B Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type A Type B · grounded

Standard 120V at 60Hz. Type A is ungrounded (two flat blades); Type B adds a round ground pin. A single-voltage 220–240V appliance brought from Europe or Asia will run at roughly a quarter power or fail to start here — but it will not burn out.

Your devices in United States

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Get a travel adapter for United States(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.

Shopping links never change the safety verdict.

United States outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in United States 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 120V dangerous for US devices?

United States runs 120V, close to the US 120V, but a shared voltage zone does not prove compatibility. The exact input range must include this voltage and the local frequency.

What plug type does United States use?

United States uses Type A/B sockets at 120⁠V / 60⁠Hz.

Related

Adapter vs converter · What "100–240V" means
Nearby: Canada · Mexico
Travelling to United States? From United Kingdom · From Australia · From Germany

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.