What power sockets are used in the USA?

The USA uses plug types A and B. The mains supply is 120 V at 60 Hz (according to the IEC).

Do I need a travel adaptor in the USA?

Yes. Plugs used in Australia and New Zealand (type I), Ireland (type G) and Singapore (types C, G and M) do not fit American type A and B sockets. You need a travel adaptor.

Do I need a voltage converter in the USA?

Only for devices designed solely for 230 V. If the charger or rating label says 100–240 V, an adaptor is enough. Check the label before you travel.

ESTA INFORMATION

Power Sockets & Voltage in the USA

In short: the USA runs on 120 V and 60 Hz, with type A/B sockets. Plugs from Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and Singapore do not fit — you need a travel adaptor. Whether you also need a voltage converter depends on the rating label of your device.

The USA compared with Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and Singapore

Figures from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC):

Country	Voltage	Frequency	Plug type
USA	120 V	60 Hz	A / B
Australia	230 V	50 Hz	I
New Zealand	230 V	50 Hz	I
Ireland	230 V	50 Hz	G
Singapore	230 V	50 Hz	C / G / M

Travel adaptor: pack one in any case

The angled flat pins of type I plugs (Australia, New Zealand) and the three rectangular pins of type G plugs (Ireland, Singapore) do not fit American sockets with two flat parallel pins (types A and B). Without an adaptor, you will not be able to plug in your devices.

Important:an adaptor only changes the shape of the plug — it does not change the voltage.

Voltage converter: check the rating label

Whether a device can handle 120 V is shown on the charger or the rating label (editorial note):

“100–240 V”: the device works on both voltages — an adaptor is enough
“230 V” or “220–240 V” only: you need a voltage converter, or it is better to leave the device at home

Tip:check every charger while you pack — that way you know what you need before you leave.

Related information

USA travel guide

All topics for travelling with ESTA

Mobile phones & SIMs in the USA

3G shutdown, roaming, eSIM

Liquids in hand luggage

The TSA 3-1-1 rule

Sources and currency of information

Last reviewed: 17 October 2026. This website is an independent information service and is not an official website of the US Government or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).