China Electrical Standards Explained
China uses 220V AC electricity at 50Hz with Type I plugs (two flat parallel pins + optional ground). This is different from North America (110-120V) and Japan (100V), but similar to Europe, UK, and Australia (220-240V).
Do I Need a Converter or Just an Adapter?
- US/Canada/Japan/Mexico: You need BOTH a voltage converter AND plug adapter
- UK/Europe/Australia/Korea: Only need a plug adapter (voltage is compatible)
- Modern laptops/phones: Usually dual-voltage (100-240V) - only need adapter
- Hair dryers/heaters: Usually single-voltage - CHECK BEFORE PLUGGING IN!