HomeUK → Europe
Do I need an adapter from the UK to Europe?
You need a Type E or F adapter for Europe.
United Kingdom: Type G, 230 V, 50 Hz → Europe: Type C/E/F, 230 V, 50 Hz.
Dual voltage (100–240 V input) covers 230 V. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
Dual voltage (100–240 V input) covers 230 V. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
230 V is within what this device expects. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
230 V is in the same range as at home, so it works whether or not it is dual voltage. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
230 V is in the same range as at home, so it works whether or not it is dual voltage. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
230 V is within what this device expects. Type G plugs do not fit Europe's Type C/E/F sockets. Pack a Type E/F adapter.
What to buy for Europe (on amazon.co.uk)
Some links on this site are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why
Plug shape. The UK uses Type G (three rectangular pins in a triangle, fused plug). Sockets in Europe are Type C (two round 4 mm pins, 19 mm apart), Type E (two round 4.8 mm pins and a hole for the socket earth pin) and Type F (two round 4.8 mm pins with earth clips on the sides). They are not compatible, so you need a plug adapter.
Voltage. The UK is 230 V; Europe is 230 V. Same voltage family, so everything you own will run. Adapter or converter?
Frequency. The UK is 50 Hz; Europe is 50 Hz. No change to worry about.
United Kingdom: The UK uses the fused three-rectangular-pin Type G plug (BS 1363) everywhere. The only exception is the shaver socket found in hotel bathrooms: a two-pin BS 4573 outlet, often switchable between 115 V and 230 V, limited to about 200 mA. It will run an electric shaver or toothbrush charger but nothing more powerful. Types D and M survive only for stage lighting and remotely switched lights.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an adapter from the UK to Europe?
Yes. UK plugs are Type G and sockets in Europe are Types C, E or F, so you need a Type E or F adapter.
Do I need a voltage converter from the UK to Europe?
No. Both are in the same voltage range (230 V and 230 V), so single-voltage appliances work.
Will my UK phone charger work in Europe?
Yes. Phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage (100–240 V). You only need a Type E or F plug adapter.
What about the reverse trip, Europe to the UK?
You need a Type G adapter for the United Kingdom. Full Europe to UK guide.