China Power Plugs, Voltage and Travel Adapters
Mainland China uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. Check the input label on every device: dual-voltage electronics usually need only a plug adapter, while 120V-only appliances need a suitable converter or should stay home.
Quick answer: Mainland China uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. If a device label says 100–240V, 50/60Hz, it normally needs only a suitable plug adapter. If it says only 120V, 60Hz, do not plug it into a 220V outlet without a correctly rated voltage converter.
An adapter changes the plug shape. It does not change the voltage.
Check the label on every device
Look on the charger, power brick or appliance for an input line.
Input: 100–240V, 50/60Hz
This is a dual-voltage device. Phone, laptop, tablet and camera chargers often use this range, but check each item rather than assuming.
Input: 120V, 60Hz
This is not designed for China's 220V supply. Plugging it in directly can damage the appliance and create a safety risk.
What visitors usually need
| Device or home system | Likely preparation |
|---|---|
Phone, laptop or camera charger marked 100–240V |
Plug adapter only |
US or Canadian appliance marked only 120V |
Correctly rated converter, or leave it at home |
UK or European device marked around 220–240V |
Usually no voltage conversion; check the plug fit |
Australian or New Zealand device marked around 220–240V |
Usually no voltage conversion; bring an adapter if the plug does not fit securely |
| Hair dryer, straightener, kettle or heating tool | Check voltage and wattage carefully; using the hotel's appliance is often safer |
The Civil Aviation Administration of China's visitor guidance identifies 220V, 50Hz supply and notes that adapters may be necessary. It describes both flat two-pin sockets and three-pin sockets with two angled flat pins.
Adapter versus converter
- Plug adapter: changes the physical pin arrangement.
- Voltage converter or transformer: changes the electrical voltage.
A converter must handle the appliance's wattage, including startup demand. Small electronics converters are often unsuitable for heating appliances. If the converter, adapter or outlet becomes unusually hot, smells damaged, sparks or feels loose, unplug it.
Hotel and public charging
Hotels may provide multi-standard outlets, USB-A or USB-C charging, but socket condition and charging speed vary. A plug that physically fits is not proof that the voltage is compatible.
Bring your own trusted charger and cable. When using an unfamiliar public USB socket, a power-only adapter or your own wall charger avoids connecting the phone's data pins to the charging system.
Packing checklist
- one reputable plug adapter compatible with your home plugs;
- a dual-voltage multi-port charger;
- the correct USB-C or other cables;
- a power bank that meets the current airline and railway rules;
- no 120V-only high-wattage appliance unless you have verified the converter.
Power-bank transport rules are separate from wall voltage and can change. Check the current carrier and China Railway instructions shortly before departure.
Official sources
- Civil Aviation Administration of China electricity guide: https://www.caac.gov.cn/ZTZL/RDZT/YTHYWZ/CHRY/SHZN/Electricity/index.html
- Beijing government guidance on using electrical appliances: https://english.beijing.gov.cn/contactus/faqs/list/202006/t20200627_1932965.html
Last reviewed: 12 August 2026. Always follow the input label supplied by the device manufacturer.