Adapters for China - What power adapter do I need for China?

Power adapters for China

If organizing a trip to China it can often be useful to know if you'll be able to power any essential devices like mobiles and tablets when you're there. By not knowing which power socket is used in China you are more likely to bring the wrong power charger, therefore having to purchase a suitable adaptor when you're there. Differing frequencies and standards can all be confusing when planning on visiting a new country if you've never been there before. With only a handful of different types of common standards being used throughout the world this guide shows exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your device in China. This page has links to step by step instructions demonstrating which power adapters you'll need to power your devices when going to China using their standard Type I, A or C 220 volt 50Hz plug outlets, please be aware that Type I plug outlets are normally used by a majority of Chinese. Power adapters are different regionally so we suggest reading the power adapters for a full list of regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for China?

The best power adapter for China will be a Type I plug adapter which is suitable for powering any 220 volt appliance or device. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for China?

What is a power adapter for a Chinese power outlet?

Power adapters are small and lightweight plastic adapters which permit a Chinese power outlet to accept a power plug from a different country. [3]

What does a power adapter do?

A power adapter enables a visitor from a different location to use their electrical devices in China simply by changing the shape of the plug.

Do I need a plug adapter in China?

If the shape of the Chinese power outlet isn't the same as the type of plug outlet in China then you will need a power adapter.

Will a power adapter change the voltage from a Chinese power outlet?

A power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 220 volt Chinese power outlet and can't convert to a different voltage. Should you need to safely use a 100, 110 or 120 volt device then you also need a step down power converter for China.

Where to buy a power adapter for China in the UK

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for China in the UK

China to UK power adapters will most likely be available to buy in the UK from airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, Luton, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Birmingham prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists such as WH Smith, Dixons or Boots but expect to pay 50% more than regular prices.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. UK high street electrical shops, newsagents and chemists such as Currys PC World, WH Smith or Boots normally typically only sell popular types of travel adapters covering a limited number of countries however for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online. In January 2019 we checked 2 high street branches of WH Smiths without seeing any power adapters available to purchase and 1 branch of Boots only had a pack of European adapters available.

Where to buy a power adapter in China

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in China

On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.

Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about China.
  2. Type I plug adapter - A Type I electrical adapter, compliant with AS/NZS 3112, fits in a standard Australia electrical outlet. This adapter features two flat pins in an inverted V-shape with an earthing pin and is also commonly used in New Zealand, China, and Argentina..
  3. Wikipedia - power adaptor