RoamDo I need a plug adapter for the USA?
The USA uses Type A / Type B plugs at 120V, 60Hz. Find your home country below to see if you need an adapter or converter.
| Travelling from | What you need |
|---|---|
| Canada (Type A, 120V) | Fine No adapter needed |
| UK (Type G, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 120V) |
| Europe (most of EU) (Type C, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 120V) |
| Australia / NZ (Type I, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 120V) |
| Japan (Type A, 100V) | Fine No adapter needed |
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Plug types in the USA
- Type A: two flat parallel pins
- Type B: two flat pins plus a round grounding pin
Coming from a 230V country? Phone and laptop chargers are almost always fine. Hair dryers and straighteners often aren't.
Will my devices work on 120V?
Check the small print on your charger. If it says INPUT: 100–240V, it works anywhere with just a plug adapter. Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage. Hair dryers, curling irons and some kitchen gadgets are often single-voltage and can be damaged on the wrong voltage.
FAQ
What plug type does the USA use?
The USA uses Type A and Type B plugs, with a standard voltage of 120V at 60Hz.
Do I need a voltage converter for the USA?
Usually not for phones, tablets, laptops or cameras, because their chargers are almost always rated 100–240V. Single-voltage appliances like some hair dryers and straighteners may need a converter or a dual-voltage model.
What's the difference between a plug adapter and a converter?
An adapter only changes the plug shape. A converter changes the voltage. Most travelers only need an adapter.
Is a universal travel adapter worth it?
If you visit more than one region, yes. One universal adapter covers most plug types, and many have USB ports built in.
Plan the rest of your USA trip
More transfer options: GetTransfer
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