Can I Use My Laptop in China? Power and Voltage Guide

Yes. Modern laptops work fine in China. Here's what you need to know about power.

Voltage in China

China uses:

• Voltage: 220V
• Frequency: 50Hz

US/Canada use:

• Voltage: 120V
• Frequency: 60Hz

UK/Europe/Australia:

• Already 220-240V
• Same as China

Do You Need a Converter?

For Laptops: NO

Modern laptops have universal power supplies.

Check your laptop charger label. It should say:

• "Input: 100-240V"
• "50-60Hz"

This means it works worldwide—no converter needed.

For Other Electronics

Check each device:

• Hair dryers: Often 120V only (need converter or buy in China)
• Older chargers: May be 120V only
• Most phone chargers: Universal (100-240V)
• Camera chargers: Usually universal

Plug Types

China Plug Types

China uses multiple plug types:

• Type A: US-style two flat pins (common)
• Type I: Australian-style angled pins (common)
• Type C: European round pins (some outlets)

Many Chinese outlets accept:

• US two-prong plugs directly
• May need adapter for grounded (3-prong) plugs

What Adapter to Bring

For US travelers:

• Many outlets accept US 2-prong
• 3-prong needs adapter
• Universal adapter recommended

For UK/EU travelers:

• Need adapter (different plug shape)
• Universal adapter recommended

For Australian travelers:

• Many outlets compatible
• Some may need adapter

Recommended: Universal Adapter

Buy a universal travel adapter that:

• Works in 150+ countries
• Has multiple plug types
• Includes USB ports
• Handles China's various outlet types

¥50-100 at airports, or buy before trip.

Practical Tips

In Hotels

• Most hotels have universal outlets
• Or provide adapters on request
• USB ports increasingly common
• Ask at front desk if needed

Multiple Devices

Bring:

• Power strip from home (if voltage compatible)
• Multi-USB charger
• Reduce number of adapters needed

Charging Phones

Phone chargers (Apple, Samsung, etc.):

• All universal voltage
• May just need plug adapter
• USB-A or USB-C ports in hotels work

Protecting Your Electronics

Surge Protection

Chinese power can have:

• Voltage fluctuations
• Power surges
• Occasional instability

Consider:

• Surge-protected adapter
• Power strip with protection
• Unplugging during storms

Battery Backup

Useful for:

• Long days out (phone battery)
• Power outages
• Train travel
• Charging multiple devices

Portable power banks are:

• Cheap in China
• Available everywhere
• Useful to have

Electronics Shopping in China

If You Forgot Something

Easy to buy:

• Universal adapters
• USB cables
• Power banks
• Phone chargers
• Cheap earbuds

At:

• Electronics stores
• Shopping malls
• Even convenience stores

Quality varies, but basics work fine.

Quick Checklist

Before your trip:

• Check laptop charger label (100-240V)
• Check other device voltages
• Buy universal adapter
• Pack power bank
• Extra USB cables

Your laptop will work. Just bring an adapter for the plug if needed.

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Need more travel prep help? The China Survival Kit includes packing lists, electronics guides, and practical preparation tips.