Do I need an adapter from France to United Kingdom?
Last reviewed · sourced from IEC TC 23 and national electricity standards
Your answer: France → United Kingdom
Plug adapter
Adapter required
United Kingdom uses Type G; your France plug (Type C, E) doesn't fit. Pack a Type G adapter — or a universal one if you travel often.
Voltage converter
Not needed
Both countries run on 230V at 50Hz. Your devices work as-is.
France uses
Type C
Type E
230V · 50Hz
→
United Kingdom uses
Type G
230V · 50Hz
What this means for your trip
Going from France to United Kingdom you'll need a plug adapter, but voltage is identical on both sides, so that's one less thing to worry about.
United Kingdom uses Type G outlets; France uses Type C/E. The shapes are incompatible, so every plug you bring needs a Type G adapter to reach the socket. The cheapest option is a simple shape-only adapter for that one country; if you travel often, a universal adapter (fits every country) pays for itself in a single trip.
Voltage is the same on both ends (230V vs 230V, 50Hz vs 50Hz), so every charger that works at home works in United Kingdom without modification. No voltage converter, no hunting for "100-240V" on the brick.
Frequently asked
Do I need a travel adapter for United Kingdom from France?
Yes. United Kingdom uses Type G outlets, which don't accept France's Type C/E plugs. Pack a Type G adapter — or a universal one if you travel often.
What type of plug does United Kingdom use?
United Kingdom uses Type G outlets at 230V, 50Hz. Three rectangular pins. UK, Ireland, Malta, Singapore, Hong Kong, many former UK colonies.
What's the voltage in United Kingdom?
United Kingdom runs on 230V at 50Hz. That's on the high-voltage standard, matching than France's 230V supply. Most modern phones, laptops, tablets, and camera chargers are dual-voltage (check for "100-240V" on the brick) and work on either. Single-voltage devices like hair dryers, curling irons, and travel kettles will not — bring a dual-voltage travel version or a voltage converter.
Are France chargers dual-voltage?
Most — but not all. Check the charger brick for a line that reads something like "INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60Hz." If you see that, the charger works on either voltage standard and you only need a plug adapter. If it lists just "120V" (or just "230V"), it's single-voltage and can't be plugged straight into the other side without a voltage converter.
Gear we'd pack for this trip
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