US to UK plug adapter guide

Type G sockets, 230V power, and when you need a converter — not just an adapter. Updated May 2026
Quick answer Plug: The UK uses Type G (three rectangular pins). US Type A/B plugs need a travel adapter. Voltage: The US is about 120V; the UK is 230V. Dual-voltage chargers (100–240V) usually need only an adapter. Frequency: The US uses 60Hz and the UK 50Hz. Fine for most electronics; check motor-driven devices.

Why the US and UK are different

American homes use Type A or B flat-pin plugs at about 120V / 60Hz. The United Kingdom uses Type G at about 230V / 50Hz. A travel adapter fixes the shape only — not a device marked 120V only.

Type G: the UK plug

Type G has three rectangular pins with an earth pin at the top. Buy a dedicated US to UK or Type A/B to Type G adapter — generic “Europe” kits with round pins (C/F) will not fit UK sockets.

Type G is also used in Ireland, Hong Kong, Singapore, and several other countries — confirm each stop in our checker.

Adapter vs voltage converter

Read the label on your charger or appliance. INPUT: 100–240V means you typically need only a plug adapter. 120V only means you need a suitable converter or should leave the device at home.

Rule of thumb: Phones, tablets, and most laptop bricks are dual-voltage. Hair dryers, kettles, and many small kitchen appliances often are not.

What to pack

  1. One solid Type G adapter per traveller
  2. A voltage converter only for confirmed 120V-only gear — match wattage to the appliance
  3. Consider dual-voltage travel versions of high-draw items instead of converting

Check your route in seconds

Open the PlugsRus.net checker with your countries pre-selected. Our database lists plug types, voltage, and frequency for 200+ destinations.

Check United States → United Kingdom in the tool.

Open the plug checker

Common questions

Can I use my iPhone charger in the UK?

Yes — Apple USB adapters accept 100–240V. You only need a Type G plug adapter for the brick.

Is Ireland the same as the UK for plugs?

Republic of Ireland also uses Type G at 230V, but select Ireland separately in our tool if that is your destination.

More travel guides

Disclaimer

This article is general travel information, not electrical advice. Always read device labels and consult the manufacturer for medical or high-wattage equipment. Data is aligned with the IEC World Plugs reference.