🇺🇸 Plugs & Voltage in United States
United States travel essentials →
From Australia/NZ? · From the UK/Ireland?
Type A, Type B · 120V · 60Hz
Voltage
120V
110–127V standard
Frequency
60Hz
AC power
Plug Types
Type AType B
Travelling from a different country? Check if you need an adapter or voltage converter with our interactive tool.
Check my adapter needs →Plug Types Used in United States
Type A
Two flat parallel pins
USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan
Type B
Two flat + round earth pin
USA, Canada, Mexico
Do I need an adapter for United States? Quick answers by home country
| Travelling from | Plug adapter | Voltage |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Not needed | Similar (120V → 120V) |
| United Kingdom | Needed | Different (230V → 120V): check device labels |
| Germany / most of the EU | Needed | Different (230V → 120V): check device labels |
| Australia | Needed | Different (230V → 120V): check device labels |
| New Zealand | Needed | Different (230V → 120V): check device labels |
| India | Needed | Different (230V → 120V): check device labels |
Based on the plug types listed above. Phone, tablet and laptop chargers are almost always rated 100–240V and only need a plug adapter; hair dryers, straighteners and kettles often are not. Check any country pair →
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Frequently Asked Questions
What plug type is used in United States?
United States uses Type A, Type B. Type A (Two flat parallel pins — used in USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan). Type B (Two flat + round earth pin — used in USA, Canada, Mexico).
What voltage does United States use?
United States uses 120 volts at 60 Hz. This puts it in the 110–127V range. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) accept 100–240V and will work fine with just a plug adapter.
Do I need a power adapter for United States?
If your home country uses different plug types to Type A, Type B, yes — you will need a plug adapter. Whether you need a voltage converter depends on your device. Check the label: if it says '100–240V', you only need a plug adapter.
Do New Zealanders need a power adapter for United States?
New Zealanders travelling to United States need both a plug adapter and to check device voltage compatibility — United States runs on 120V vs New Zealand's 230V.
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