China | 220 V | 50 Hz

United States | 120 V | 60 Hz

What do I need to use my appliances/electronics in China?

Plug Adapters

They do not convert electricity. They simply allow a dual-voltage appliance, a transformer or a converter from one country to be plugged into the wall outlet of another country. Use the pictures below for guidance on what adapters you will need for your trip.

On the left is what you will find in China. On the right is what we have in the US. You will notice that the two holes in China are the same size; while in the US, one hole is larger than the other.

These are examples of the "grounded" sockets you will find in China.

Converters and transformers both step up or down the voltage, but there is a difference in use between them. Converters should be used only with "electric" products. Electric products are simple heating devices or have mechanical motors. Examples are hair dryers, steam irons, shavers, toothbrushes or small fans. Converters are not designed for "continuous duty" and should only be used for short periods of time (1 to 2 hours). Additionally, most converters can only be used for ungrounded appliances (2 pins on the plug). Converters must be unplugged from the wall when not in use.

Transformers also step up or down the voltage, but they are more expensive than converters and are used with "electronic" products. Electronic products have a chip or circuit. Examples are radios, CD or DVD players, shavers, camcorder battery charges, computers, computer printers, fax machines, televisions and answering machines. Transformers can also be used with electric appliances and may be operated continually for many days. The advantage of converters, however, is that they are lighter and less expensive.

Computers are electronic devices and therefore they must be used with a transformer, unless they are dual voltage. Fortunately, most laptop battery chargers, cell phone chargers, digital camera chargers, and AC adapters are dual voltage, so they can be used with only a plug adapter for your visit to China.

When making calls from the US to China, dial: 011 + 86 + Area Code + Tel #

When making calls from China to the US, dial: 00 + 1 + Area Code + Tel #

Mobile telephones, as in most other places worldwide, are very popular in China. China Mobile or CMCC, is the largest mobile phone operator in China. It is the world's largest mobile phone operator ranked by number of subscribers, with over 376.38 million customers (as of end of February, 2008). Most communication is done by way of mobile telephone. You may also notice that the Chinese use text messaging alot. It is not uncommon to see a group of young Chinese friends eating together at a restaurant but all having additional conversations by way of text messaging.

Roaming agreements exist with most major international mobile phone companies. Coverage in towns and cities throughout the country is usually more reliable than coverage in the US especially in rural areas. It is not uncommon to see farmers in the countryside on their mobile phones while working in the fields. You will also be amazed when you can use your mobile phone to make calls from atop the Great Wall.