
Devices which originated from another country which use a higher voltage such as 220 volts and used in a 100 volt power outlet either take longer to charge or simply won't turn on.
You don't need a power converter if you are already using either a 100 volt appliance or one that supports dual voltage. See our WikiConnections world power outlets page to discover the voltage your country uses. You need a step up power converter if you are travelling from a country that uses 220-240 volts and your appliance doesn't support 100 volts. If you are visiting Japan from another country check that the device can be used with a 100 volt power supply. If you prefer to travel as light as possible, get an international adapter set, which allows you to take only the adapters you need.Should I bring a power adapter for Japan? Do I need a power converter for Japan? Note that these won’t always work for appliances that need to be grounded, which will require a more expensive grounding adapter. If you shop around, you can usually find one for less than $10 online ( this one also comes with a surge protector). If you travel a lot, invest in a universal travel adapter, which lets you slide out different plug formations so that you can use the adapter in outlets in any country. If you’re packing lots of devices (like a camera, smartphone, and tablet), you should invest in multiple adapters so that you can charge all of your electronics at once. Most are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack. An adapter will allow you only to plug your appliance into another type of outlet. Related: 10 Cheap Travel Gadgets Under $20 That Are Surprisingly Useful Travel Adapter PlugsĮven if two countries operate on the same voltage, their outlets might not take the same shape of plug-and that’s where an adapter comes in. If this is the case, you’ll only need a plug adapter (see below for more details). If you see something like “INPUT AC 120/240 V 50-60 Hz 1300 W,” then your device is dual-voltage, and you can safely use it for voltages anywhere between 120 V and 240 V.
If you want to use it elsewhere, you’ll need a converter.
How do you know if your device is dual-voltage? Check the label and/or owner’s manual: If it says something similar to “INPUT AC 120 VAC 60 Hz 200 W,” then your gadget is single-voltage and can only be used on 120 V. Most smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets are dual-voltage, and if you use a converter on something that is already dual-voltage, you can damage your device. The vast majority of modern travel gadets are dual-voltage, meaning they automatically convert to run on other voltage systems. For a complete list of voltage requirements by country, visit .īefore you run out and buy a voltage converter, there’s a very important piece of information you need to know. While Japan, most of North America, and parts of South America and the Caribbean use voltage between 100 and 125, the vast majority of the world uses 220 to 240 volts. Most American-made electrical appliances work at 110 volts.