What Power Adapter Do I Need for China? (2026)

Short answer: Mainland China uses 220V at 50Hz, and its sockets take Type A, C and I plugs. If your plug is one of those, you may not need an adapter. If not (for example Type G from the UK or Singapore), bring an adapter or a universal one that covers Type I. Check that your charger says 100–240V, so you don’t need a voltage converter.

The rules

Item	What to know
Voltage	220V
Frequency	50Hz
Type A	Two flat pins (same as North American ungrounded plugs)
Type C	Two round pins (common European “Europlug”)
Type I	Three flat pins in a V-shape (the Chinese grounded standard, GB 2099.1 / GB 1002)

Type C is now rare, though it still turns up in some hotels and older buildings. Newer hotels and airports often have only Type I or multi-sockets that take several shapes. Plan around Type I and a universal adapter.

What to do

1. Read your charger label. Look for “Input: 100–240V, 50/60Hz”. Phone, laptop, camera and power-bank chargers almost always say this. If so, you only need a plug-shape adapter.
2. Match your plug to the table. North American two-pin plugs (Type A) and European two-pin plugs (Type C) usually fit. UK (Type G), Swiss, Indian and many other plugs do not.
3. Buy a universal adapter with Type I output, or an adapter from your plug type to Type A/C/I. Buy it before you leave, because airport shops can charge more.
4. Pack a multi-port USB charger or a small power strip. One adapter can then power several devices. Make sure the strip is rated for 220V.
5. Charge on arrival. You will want power for your travel eSIM and for Alipay, so keep your phone topped up. Add the adapter to your trip checklist.

What happens if you get it wrong

• Wrong plug shape: it simply won’t fit. Ask your hotel front desk, as many keep spare adapters, but don’t count on it.
• Single-voltage 110V device: plugging a device rated only for 110V into a 220V socket can damage it. A plug adapter does not change voltage. You would need a voltage converter, or just leave that device at home. Hair dryers, curling irons and travel kettles are the usual culprits.
• Ungrounded plug in a grounded socket: many sockets take both, but check the fit and don’t force it.

Common mistakes

• Assuming one “Asia” adapter works. It must list Type I.
• Buying a voltage converter when you only need a plug adapter.
• Skipping the label check on hair tools and shavers.
• Packing only one adapter for a whole family.

FAQ

Do I need an adapter if I come from the US?

Probably not for the plug shape, as Type A fits many sockets. But check that your devices say 100–240V. Standard US 110V-only appliances can be damaged at 220V.

Do I need an adapter from the UK or Singapore?

Yes. Type G plugs don’t fit Chinese sockets. Use a G-to-A/C/I adapter or a universal adapter that includes Type I. Check that your chargers are dual-voltage.

Do hotels in China provide adapters?

Many do on request, but it is not guaranteed. Bring your own.

Next steps for your trip