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Plugs and voltage

United States

United States uses plug types A and B. The most common is type B – the North American three-prong plug.

Type
A · B
Voltage
120 V
Frequency
60 Hz

Type A

North American two-prong plug

Two flat parallel blades, no earth – the everyday plug of the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan.

15 A · ungrounded

Type B

North American three-prong plug · most common

Type A with an extra round earth pin – the standard socket in North America.

15 A · grounded

Good to know

Almost all sockets are type B; very old buildings may still have two-slot type A sockets. Many American devices are dual-voltage, but hair dryers and kettles usually are not.

Will your plugs fit here?

Where plugs from this country fit

Travelling to United States

Travelling from United States

Frequently asked questions

What plug type is used in United States?

United States uses plug types A and B. The most common is type B – the North American three-prong plug. Almost all sockets are type B; very old buildings may still have two-slot type A sockets. Many American devices are dual-voltage, but hair dryers and kettles usually are not.

What is the voltage in United States?

The mains voltage in United States is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. Devices from countries with 100–127 V work without a converter. Devices from Europe and most of the world (220–240 V) should only be plugged in if the power supply says 100–240 V – otherwise you need a voltage converter.

Do I need a travel adapter for United States?

You need an adapter if your devices have plugs other than types A and B. You won’t need one if you’re coming from Canada and Japan. Only some plugs fit for travellers from China. Travellers from Australia, France, Germany, India, Poland and United Kingdom need an adapter to type B.

Do I need a voltage converter in United States?

Not if you’re coming from Canada and Japan – the voltage is similar. If you bring devices from Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Poland and United Kingdom, check their rating labels. Phone and laptop chargers usually work on 100–240 V, but hair dryers, straighteners and kettles often do not – those need a voltage converter.

Same sockets and voltage