SHOPNOWS
中 / EN

Travel power tool · Europe

United Kingdom plug types & voltage — adapters, 100–240V devices and local sockets

The UK uses Type G three-pin sockets (BS 1363), typically switched and fused, at 230 V/50 Hz.

Sockets & supply

GType G — three rectangular pins (BS 1363)
Voltage230 V
Frequency50 Hz

Legacy sockets still around: D/M type

Type G three-pin sockets with switches and fuses; adapters are chunky.

From China — your plugs vs local sockets

two flat pins needs adapter Euro round pins needs adapter angled three-pin needs adapter
Adapter None of your plugs fit — an adapter is a must. Buy: an adapter to Type G, or a universal adapter.
Voltage 220 V → 230 V: close enough — no transformer needed.
Frequency 50 Hz → 50 Hz: nothing to worry about.

On the ground

The UK uses Type G three-pin sockets (BS 1363), typically switched and fused, at 230 V/50 Hz.

Legacy Type D/M outlets survive only in stage lighting and similar niches. Bathrooms may have shaver sockets fed by an isolating transformer (110/230 V dual setting).

What to pack

No Chinese plug fits — a Type G adapter is mandatory and bulky, so pack it in advance; no transformer needed at 230 V.

Type G plugs and sockets are fused and earthed — a BS-certified adapter is all you need.

Wide-voltage (INPUT 100–240V) chargers and power bricks work anywhere; single-voltage heating appliances (hairdryers, kettles) need a transformer when voltages differ. Country data cannot certify a device — check the nameplate.

Sources & verification

Checked 2026-11-04 against: Wikipedia — Mains electricity by country (CC BY-SA 4.0) · PlugVoltage power dataset 2026.10.20.1 (CC BY 4.0) · PackBefore country dataset (CC BY 4.0) · PlugTypes.com (cross-check signal only) (API terms allow use; not an open data license)

Voltages are nominal; local and legacy variance is noted above where known.

Related destinations

Ireland · Hong Kong · Singapore · Malaysia · United Arab Emirates

All countries & adapter checker