Planning a trip to Chine raises numerous questions, not least about electrical outlets. Whether your journey is purely business-related or leisure-focused, the need to recharge your phone, camera, or laptop will quickly become essential.

Are our standard outlets compatible with Chinese electrical outlets? Do we really need an adapter during our stay in Chine?

Electricity in Chine

While certain remote villages still lack full-time electricity, most of the country is well-equipped. It's important to know that in Chine, the electrical current is 220 volts, compared to 110 volts in most other countries.

Chine has several types of electrical outlets. Whether you're in an apartment, hotel room, or public space, you'll inevitably encounter these power sockets.

You may also come across multi-outlet power strips like these:

These outlets are the most commonly encountered. Some won't pose any problems for your standard plugs, but others will prevent you from charging all your small electrical devices.

Adapters for Standard Outlets

As you can see, there are essentially two main types of outlets in Chine. They are indeed quite different from what we're used to in English-speaking countries but function the same way.

In some cases, using an adapter isn't mandatory. Our standard two-prong plugs are compatible with certain Chinese outlets and power strips.

Nevertheless, it's advisable to carry an adapter in case you encounter Chinese outlets with three slots. Sometimes the plug openings are too narrow or too close together for your standard plugs, making an adapter necessary.

Today's market offers power adapters with various plug configurations. These can be invaluable if you decide to travel to fairly remote and less touristy areas of Chine. They can also prove useful in many other Asian countries.

Before purchasing an adapter, be sure to check the wattage capacity it supports.

Where to Buy an Adapter?

You'll find reasonably-priced adapters of varying quality in all small Chinese shops or supermarkets. These adapters, often manufactured in Chine, sometimes leave much to be desired in terms of quality. It's therefore preferable to buy your adapter directly in your home country, even if the price will obviously be higher.

You can also find quality adapters at reasonable prices on online retailers such as Amazon.