Voltage in European sockets. What sockets and voltages are used in different countries of the world

Sockets in the USA are so different from Russian sockets that without an adapter (adapter), you will not be able to use American sockets. When going, it is important to take into account the features of American outlets - you can ask the hotel in advance or ask what outlets they have. There is also a difference in voltage, so difficulties may arise when using household appliances and charging mobile devices. For example, some tourists note that due to electrical outlets in the US, their hair dryer does not work as powerfully or their phone charges more slowly.

What are the outlets in the USA?

The most important thing a tourist needs to know is that the outlets in the USA are different, not the same as in Russia. They are very different, and you won’t be able to insert a domestic plug into them. Many have seen in Hollywood films what electrical outlets look like in the USA, but let’s refresh our memory:

As you can see, the outlets in the USA are completely different, not the same as in Russia, Ukraine, or Europe. They differ in that it is impossible to insert a standard Russian plug into them. Instead of standard round slots, two rectangular holes are used. It’s already clear what sockets look like in the USA, but if the socket is different, then the plug is different? Yes, the plug in the US also looks different, look at the following photo:

Therefore, if you want to use the equipment that you took with you from Russia, then you will definitely need an adapter. Since the Russian socket plug will not fit American sockets.

How many volts are there in American outlets?

The standard voltage in the USA is 100 Volts, while in Russia, all equipment is designed for 220-240 V. This explains why Russian or Ukrainian equipment behaves so strangely in the USA. Volts, or voltage, in the American power grid are different from those in Russia. But the grounding principle is no different. There are sockets with grounding, and the ground looks the same as in European sockets. Pay attention to the 3rd hole in the socket, it is the ground:

Before using your hair dryer, laptop, charger, etc., it makes sense to study the technical characteristics of the device in detail - perhaps the existing devices will work. But there is also equipment that is highly dependent on voltage and can fail.

Is it possible to use equipment from Russia?

If you are traveling as a tourist, then yes, in 99% of cases you can use equipment from Russia in the USA. The main thing is to buy an adapter. If you plan to move to the USA for a long period of time, then it is better to buy all household appliances immediately upon arrival. The total may turn out to be expensive, but you can always find budget models. Another plus is that you don’t have to drag a heavy load from your home country.

Those who want to use equipment from Russia/Ukraine/Europe in the USA need to prepare. For example, if you are interested in charging a laptop in the USA, then simply study the characteristics of your adapter:

This way you will know all the requirements for the electrical network and will be able to understand whether the equipment will burn out or deteriorate. It is important to understand that in 99% of cases domestic equipment will not burn out if there is insufficient voltage, but it will not function normally. But American equipment in Russia, on the contrary, will probably burn out, since American equipment, not designed for the international market, is designed for low voltage.

For example, you can only use a hairdryer from Russia at full speed, and the device will blow as if it were turned on in the weakest mode. The same applies to ironing and other equipment. Imagine if your equipment was supplied with 2 times less energy than necessary.

As for mobile phones, there will be no serious problems with recharging. But the process will take a lot of time, because charging the device will take several times longer than in Russia. In the case of a mobile phone, we recommend purchasing a new charger. The charging speed depends on it, and not on your smartphone.

Adapter and adapter for American outlet

Using a special adapter, you can easily connect any devices. But you need to take care of purchasing it in advance - you are unlikely to want to walk the streets of an unfamiliar city looking for a suitable adapter for an outlet. The adapter for an American outlet looks something like this and can be used:

Many hotels provide guests with such devices, but this feature is not available in all hotels. And most importantly, there is often a need to simultaneously charge your phone, dry your hair and connect a video camera to the network - in this case, one adapter will not be enough. For those who travel frequently, we recommend for 3-5 dollars, for example this:

Suitable for Russia, Europe, USA, England, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico. When assembled, it takes up minimal space.

Here are all supported connectors:

Costs 3-5 dollars, delivered to Russia for free, arrived to me in 19 days after payment. You can buy it at.

In addition, if you want to charge your phone, it is better to buy not an adapter for an outlet, but a USB adapter with which you will charge the phone. For example, you can buy something like this:

You can buy an adapter at home by ordering it online. On AliExpress or Gearbest you can find adapters and adapters for just a couple of dollars. You can also buy an adapter at duty free right before your trip. Adapters can also be purchased at an in-flight store when you fly.

If you put this question off until you travel to New York or another US city, you will be unpleasantly surprised. Such adapters and adapters cost $20-40, which is quite expensive. In this video you will learn more about American socket adapters:

European buyers who have had to purchase electronic devices or home appliances in the United States know that American equipment has a different power cord configuration than what we are used to. There is also a difference in the network voltage range. Thus, the norm for the United States is a voltage of 110 volts, while in the networks of European countries it is 220 volts.

Therefore, people who want to buy a laptop, smartphone, TV or depilator in the USA are afraid that they will not be able to use these devices.

In fact, they can, but for this you will need to take certain steps. Next, we will try to figure out how to determine the voltage level at which the device operates, and how to adapt a North American device to the networks of the European continent.

Currently, almost all manufacturers equip their products with universal network adapters, power supplies and devices for charging gadgets, which allows the equipment to work in any country in the world.

Finding out the voltage range for a particular product is not difficult. To do this, just look:

instructions for the device (section dedicated to technical parameters);
specification on the sticker located on the back of the product;
description of the device model on the manufacturer's website.

Standard network adapters of this type are included with all modern laptops. In the data indicated on the sticker, we can see that this device is universal and can operate in the range from 100 to 240 volts (highlighted in red).

Before purchasing a product, the buyer can first find out what the operating range of the corresponding device is. In addition, you can ask the seller of the product about the shape of the plug and the permissible voltage level. But it should be remembered that almost any device can be adapted to work with a suitable voltage level.

On the sticker of the electric razor charger we see that the device also operates at a voltage of 100-240 volts (highlighted in red)

Equipment that operates at voltages between 100 and 240 volts

After receiving the goods, you must first make sure that this power supply is truly universal, because otherwise there is a high risk of damage to the electrical device.

Standard mobile phone charger. Information that indicates its versatility is highlighted in red.

Then you need to solve the problem with the American type cord plug, which is different from the European standard. If, when ordering a product, the store does not offer a European-style plug as an option, then there are two ways out of this situation.

Purchasing an adapter

Buying an adapter for an American-type cord plug to a European-type network is the simplest, cheapest and most popular way to solve the problem. But in this case, it is necessary to take into account one important nuance - the presence or absence of a grounding contact on the plug.

Mains plug equipped with a grounding pin

If the plug of the purchased device is equipped with a grounding contact, then you should select a universal type adapter. If there is no grounding contact, then a standard adapter is most suitable.

A plug that does not have a grounding pin

Purchasing such an adapter is the optimal solution. Such devices cost about two to three dollars and are sold in many electrical stores. However, the difficulty is that they are not always available for sale.

Types of network adapters designed for plugs without grounding function

But this problem is not insurmountable, since such devices can be purchased on radio markets or via the Internet. For example, a large assortment of such products is presented on the American online auction eBay.

Purchasing the correct power cord

An alternative way to solve the problem is to purchase a new power cord equipped with a plug of the appropriate configuration. You can also use a cord from some other device, for example, from a camera or video camera.

The cord can be purchased for $3-5 at any electronics or home improvement store. But it should be taken into account that the connector of the purchased cord that is connected to the equipment must fully correspond to the connector of the American cord.

Let's consider a fairly common situation: a laptop was purchased in the United States with a plug configuration typical for that country. The gadget's network adapter states that it is universal and can operate at a network voltage of 100-240 volts. You can solve the problem of replacing the cord in a very simple way:

Initially, the laptop included a power cord with a standard US connector.

The simplest way out is to replace it with a power cord suitable for European networks. There is no need to do anything else, because the laptop's network adapter can work with any network.

Cases when purchasing a cord is impractical

For some types of equipment, purchasing cords is not justified, and in such cases, preference should be given to purchasing adapters. Devices used primarily with adapters include:

mobile phones and smartphones, since purchasing a new device for recharging is unprofitable;
large household appliances in which the cord is connected to the device itself, and can only be replaced by specialists from specialized repair centers;
devices equipped with complex connectors and connected directly to electrical equipment; in such situations, you can only purchase a suitable cord from the manufacturer’s service center.

Electrical equipment operating at voltages between 100 and 110 volts

Nowadays, it is common to find household appliances that operate strictly at 110 volts. This is, first of all, large equipment that users rarely order through online stores from other parts of the world.

But if the buyer nevertheless received such a product, then he can solve the problem that has arisen quite easily. The best solution in this case is to purchase a step-down transformer.

This device reduces the voltage of the 220V electrical network to 110V suitable for the device. It is equipped with all the necessary connectors, so there is no need to purchase any additional adapters. The process of connecting the device to the electrical network via a transformer is carried out by connecting the plugs; no settings are needed.

Selecting the correct transformer power

When choosing a transformer, you need to pay attention to the power level of the electrical appliance with which it will be used, since large appliances, in particular refrigerators, televisions, electric heaters, etc., require a higher power transformer. Therefore, you first need to find out what the power of the electrical appliance is (in Watts-W or Watt), and then buy the most suitable transformer device.

The dimensions of step-down transformers vary. Thus, for equipment with low power levels (up to two hundred watts), transformers are barely larger in size than devices for charging smartphones. A device for equipment with a power of up to three thousand watts can be comparable in its parameters to a two-liter bottle.

An ordinary step-down transformer equipped with an American plug connector

Such devices can be ordered from electronic stores. The cost of transformers with a power of up to two hundred watts is approximately ten dollars. The higher the power of the connected equipment, the more expensive the transformer is. So, the cost of a device for three thousand watts will reach 50-70 dollars.

Step-down transformer for high-power electrical devices

Many buyers order such products via the Internet, in particular, on the American eBay auction, where there is always a large selection of step-down transformers.

One of the most unexpected situations is when you come on vacation and want to charge your mobile or camera, but the plug does not fit into the outlet.

This problem can be solved quite quickly; adapters are sometimes sold directly in hotels or in souvenir shops. But it’s better to prepare for such a turn of events in advance.

Today we will talk about sockets that are found in different countries of the world.

Types of sockets that do not require an adapter

First, let's look at the standard we are used to, which is accepted in Russia and Europe - this is type C And F. These types of sockets are also common in all CIS countries, Asia and South America. Support voltage 220 – 240 V.

Type G

Those who have traveled around the UK already know that the sockets there are very different from those we are used to. This is type G.

It is also found in Ireland, Malta, Malaysia and Singapore.

Type I

You will definitely need an adapter if you decide to travel to Australia, New Zealand, China and Argentina.

In these countries, Type I sockets are used. They can have either two or three (grounding) plugs.

In Australia, sockets are often equipped with a switch.

Type M

South Africa also has its own unique sockets; type M is used there.

Even though the holes in this type of sockets are round, it still won’t be possible to insert the usual plug into it. The distance between the holes is different.

In addition, because This type of socket is found in only a few African countries; universal adapters are often not suitable for it.

It is not necessary to have many adapters for different sockets. At airports you can find shops that sell various small items for travel, including a universal adapter.

In some countries, universal sockets are common and can accept European and North American plugs. Such sockets can often be found in Thailand:

October 30th, 2017 , 06:58 am

In Europe, the voltage in the electrical network varies from 220 to 240 V, in the USA and Japan - from 100 to 120 V - why? Is it really just to create problems for tourists who are forced to carry adapters with them or look for it upon arrival, so as not to let the phone “die”?
When it comes to electricity, globalization can be forgotten. Even in the European Union, where there is one currency, there are different electrical outlets. The reason for this is the historical factor.

Influenced the development of sockets and the availability of materials. For example, during World War II, Britain came up with a three-prong plug with a short copper fuse. This design made it possible to save copper reserves for military needs.

Now, according to one classification, there are 12 types of sockets, according to another - 15. Moreover, sockets of one type sometimes accept plugs of another. However, if you find out that the country you are going to has the same type of socket as at home, don’t rush to rejoice! This is only half the problem. Voltage and frequency may vary in different parts of the world.

Classification of types of sockets and plugs in different countries of the world

The two most common standards are: European - 220-240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz and American - 100-127 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. You should not check what will happen if an electrical appliance operating on 100-127 V is plugged into an outlet with 220-240 V.

In some countries you should keep your ears open. For example, in most areas of Brazil, 127 V is used, but in the north of the country 220 V is found. And in Japan, the voltage is the same everywhere - 110 V, but the frequency is different: in the east 50 Hz is used, in the west - 60 Hz. The reason is simple: first, German-made generators with a frequency of 50 Hz were purchased for Tokyo, and soon after that American ones with a frequency of 60 Hz were supplied to Osaka.

Perhaps someday a single standard will be adopted. A universal socket for all types of plugs has already been developed. But for now it’s up to everyone to install it or not. In addition, we first need to come to a unified voltage standard. And this comes down to huge financial costs for the refurbishment and re-equipment of transformer substations, replacement of sockets and plugs.

Something on the topic of sockets and their use from my own experience

When it comes to electricity, globalization can be forgotten. Even in the European Union, where there is one currency, there are different electrical outlets. Therefore, when going abroad, you have to replenish your luggage with an adapter or look for it upon arrival. The reason for this is the historical factor.

In the era of electrification, inventors from different countries offered their own versions of optimal sockets; Different types of power generators were built all over the world. And national companies involved in the installation of electrical networks supplied their devices suitable for these networks. Accordingly, different types of plug connectors and sockets were introduced and their own networks were designed. The developments of other countries were completely ignored.
Influenced the development of sockets and the availability of materials. For example, during World War II, Britain came up with a three-prong plug with a short copper fuse. This design made it possible to save copper reserves for military needs.
Now, according to one classification, there are 12 types of sockets, according to another - 15. Moreover, sockets of one type sometimes accept plugs of another. However, if you find out that the country you are going to has the same type of socket as at home, don’t rush to rejoice! This is only half the problem. Voltage and frequency may vary in different parts of the world.

Classification of types of sockets and plugs in different countries of the world

The two most common standards are: European - 220–240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz and American - 100–127 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. You should not check what will happen if an electrical appliance operating on 100–127 V is plugged into an outlet with 220–240 V.
In some countries you should keep your ears open. For example, in most parts of Brazil, 127 V is used, but in the north of the country 220 V is found. And in Japan, the voltage is the same everywhere - 110 V, but the frequency is different: in the east 50 Hz is used, in the west - 60 Hz. The reason is simple: first, German-made generators with a frequency of 50 Hz were purchased for Tokyo, and soon after that American ones with a frequency of 60 Hz were supplied to Osaka.
Perhaps someday a single standard will be adopted. A universal socket for all types of plugs has already been developed. But for now it’s up to everyone to install it or not. In addition, we first need to come to a unified voltage standard. And this comes down to huge financial costs for the refurbishment and re-equipment of transformer substations, replacement of sockets and plugs.
* Voltage 100–127 V at a frequency of 60 Hz is used by the USA, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, partially Brazil and other countries.
* Voltage 220-240 V with a frequency of 50 Hz is used in most other countries, but even with the same parameters, the type of sockets can vary greatly.

Here is a brief description of some of them: Types A and B - American socket

Type B differs from A by the presence of a third hole - it is intended for a grounding pin. Such sockets, as you can guess from the name, were invented in the USA and are widespread in North, Central and partly South America, as well as Japan and some other countries.

Types C and F - European socket

Just like A and B, types C and F differ from each other only in the presence of grounding - F has it. The European socket is used in most EU countries, as well as in Russia and the CIS, Algeria, Egypt and many other countries.

Type G - British socket

In the UK, the socket has three flat holes, and this design appeared for a reason. The fact is that during World War II the country experienced a copper shortage. Therefore, a plug with a short copper fuse and three pins was developed. In addition to Great Britain, the same socket is used in Cyprus, Malta, Singapore and other countries that were influenced by the British Empire.

Type I - Australian socket

This type of socket can be found not only in Australia, but also in New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Guinea, Samoa and sometimes in China, where types A and C are also common.

Type H - Israeli socket

Type H is used only in Israel and Palestine, and the pins of the plug can be either round or flat - this depends on when the device was manufactured. The old equipment had a flat socket shape, but new sockets are suitable for two options.

Type K - Danish socket

This outlet can easily claim the title of “friendliest” in the world - its design resembles a smiling face. In addition to Denmark and Greenland, which is part of it, type K is used in Bangladesh and the Maldives - however, several types of sockets are common there.

Fortunately, all these differences won't ruin your vacation or business trip - you just need to purchase a suitable adapter in advance.

Universal adapter

Map showing the distribution of different types of sockets used around the world.

A world map shows the distribution of different types of sockets in use around the world. Countries using Types A and B are highlighted in red, countries using Types C and E/F are dark blue (which are 100% compatible with each other), countries using Type D are highlighted in brown, British Type G is in aqua, Israeli Types C and H are in pink. , yellow highlights countries using Australian type I, black countries use C and J, gray types C and K, orange types C and L, purple in South African countries use type M, pale blue countries use type N, and dark green Thailand Types C and O. Please note that this simplified overview only shows the most common plug type, and sometimes several systems in the same country.

A complete overview of all countries in the world and their respective plugs/sockets and voltages/frequencies used for home appliances. The table shows that most countries have electricity supplies between 220 and 240 volts (50 or 60 Hz), far superior to countries operating at 100 to 127 volts. The list also shows that types A and C are the most commonly used electrical plugs around the world.
Most countries have a clearly defined plug and voltage standard. However, many Latin American, African and Asian countries use a motley collection of often incompatible plugs, and sometimes the voltage differs from region to region. This situation makes it difficult for travelers to assess which adapter or transformer connector is needed for a trip. In this case, when the electricity situation in a country requires additional information, the name of the country in question is highlighted in red.