What adapters do I need for UK?
Rachel Hickman
Published Mar 20, 2026
What adapters do I need for UK?
Comparison of electrical adapters for England
| Type G Power Plug Adapter | Universal Travel Power Adapter | |
|---|---|---|
| Can be used in England | Yes | Yes |
| Types of plug included | G | A/B, E/F, G and I |
| Compatible number of countries (A) | 50+ | 150+ |
| Fits in a Type G British power outlet | Yes | Yes |
Can you plug a European plug to UK?
You can use an EU conversion plug, which have several benefits. However, before using a conversion plug you should: Always check that the type of conversion plug you use is suitable for the EU plug. We recommend you replace the appliance with a UK standard electrical product if the plug is not suitable for conversion.
Can you change a US plug to a UK plug?
If you have devices with US style 2 Pin plugs and want to use them in your UK 3 Pin socket then this converter plug is for you. Your appliance or device must be capable of being connected to the UK Power supply i.e. 240v.
What type of plug does UK use?
G
For United Kingdom the associated plug type is G, which is the plug that three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. United Kingdom operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
What voltage is a UK plug?
230v
UK power sockets deliver an average voltage of 230v, although in practice this can be slightly higher. To charge devices that are compatible with this voltage, simply buy the appropriate adapter from the airport or from high street shops.
Can I use a two pin plug in the UK?
What you may need though is a plug adapter. This is to convert the 2 pin adapter found on most charging stands in the UK and Europe to work with the power supply in the other country. When using a voltage converter, you may need a different adapter to the one you think.
Is it illegal to sell an electrical item without a UK plug?
All manufacturers and importers are required to ensure that electrical items they supply in the UK are fitted with UK three-pin plugs with the proper fuse. Distributors and retailers must not sell any appliances without a correct fused plug fitted.
Will German electrical items work in UK?
You can use your electric appliances in England, because the standard voltage (230 V) is the same as in Germany. So you don’t need a voltage converter in England, when living in Germany.
Do US electronics work in UK?
Newer appliances widely sold in the U.S. are dual voltage, meaning they will automatically switch between voltages when plugged in. Some may be marked with 110V-220V, which means they’ll work fine in Europe but may need to be manually adjusted.
What is an EU adapter?
A small adapter allows American-style plugs (two flat prongs) to fit into British or Irish outlets (which take three rectangular prongs) or continental European outlets (which take two round prongs). Adapters are inexpensive — bring a handful.
Do I need a power adapter for the UK?
In England the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You cannot use your electric appliances in England without a voltage converter, because the standard voltage in England (230 V) is higher than in the United States of America (120 V).
Do I need a power converter for UK?
You cannot use your electric appliances in England without a voltage converter, because the standard voltage in England (230 V) is higher than in the United States of America (120 V).
The outlets in the UK only work with one plug type, so if you’re from the US, you’ll definitely need an adapter for your trip. A US to UK power adapter will allow you to use American devices with British sockets.
What is a Type G plug socket UK?
Type G outlets are used throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (see the picture). These sockets have three rectangular holes, including a ground. Outlets in the UK often have a small switch right above them that must be turned on in order for electricity to flow.
What plug do I need for London?
If you’re making your first trip to London (or somewhere else in the UK), you’ll probably be asking, “What plug do I need for UK?” The outlets in the UK only work with one plug type, so if you’re from the US, you’ll definitely need an adapter for your trip.
What is a universal adapter and why do I need one?
This Universal Adapter pictured is the one we recommend because it will charge your personal electronics in the UK and in over 100 other countries around the world. It also comes with a built-in fuse to save your devices from power surges.