Countries7 min read

Travel adapters for the United States: Type A/B, 120 V and 60 Hz

Travellers from much of Europe usually need a Type A/B adapter for the United States. The device label matters just as much: the supply is normally 120 V at 60 Hz.

In brief

✓Type A is unearthed; Type B includes earth.
✓A European plug normally needs an adapter.
✓A 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz charger normally needs no voltage converter.

Type A and Type B sockets

Type A has two flat parallel contacts. Type B adds an earth pin. An earthed European appliance needs an adapter that accepts its earth contact and connects it to Type B.

120 V and 60 Hz

Many modern electronic power supplies support the US supply, but European heating appliances commonly do not. Check INPUT rather than assuming that an adapter is enough.

Common device outcomes

Device label	Typical result
100–240 V, 50/60 Hz	Suitable electrically; check plug adapter
220–240 V, 50 Hz	Not confirmed for direct use
Dual-voltage 120/230 V	Set correctly and check plug adapter

Earth and older outlets

Not every old outlet is earthed. A three-pin adapter cannot create an earth connection where the building installation does not provide one.

Common questions

FAQ

Do Europeans need a travel adapter in the US?+

Usually yes for Type C, E or F plugs.

Do I need a voltage converter for a laptop?+

Usually not if the power supply states 100–240 V and 50/60 Hz.

Can I use a 230 V hair dryer?+

Not unless it is designed or correctly set for 120 V.

Sources

Sources used

Reviewed: 2 August 2026

World Plugs

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) · Primary source

IEC country overview of commonly used plug types, nominal voltages and frequencies.

IEC 60884-2-5

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) · Primary source

IEC safety requirements for household adapters with or without protective earth.

IEC 60884-1:2022

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) · Primary source

Core standard for household plugs and socket-outlets with or without protective earth.

Plugs and sockets

World Standards · Supplementary source

Supplementary country and territory overview of plug types, voltage and frequency.

The sources support the technical statements in this guide. For a particular device, its label, manual and manufacturer approval remain decisive.

All sources and methodology →

Related guides

Basics

Travel adapters for the United States: Type A/B, 120 V and 60 Hz

Type A and Type B sockets

120 V and 60 Hz

Common device outcomes

Earth and older outlets

FAQ

Sources used

Related guides

Travel adapter or voltage converter: what do you actually need?

How to read a device label: volts, hertz, amps and watts

Hair dryers and straighteners abroad: voltage and power explained