Do I need an adapter from United Kingdom to Switzerland?
Last reviewed · sourced from IEC TC 23 and national electricity standards
Your answer: United Kingdom → Switzerland
Plug adapter
Adapter required
Switzerland uses Type C, J; your United Kingdom plug (Type G) doesn't fit. Pack a Type C/J 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.
United Kingdom uses
Type G
230V · 50Hz
→
Switzerland uses
Type C
Type J
230V · 50Hz
What this means for your trip
Going from United Kingdom to Switzerland you'll need a plug adapter, but voltage is identical on both sides, so that's one less thing to worry about.
Switzerland uses Type C/J outlets; United Kingdom uses Type G. The shapes are incompatible, so every plug you bring needs a Type C/J 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 Switzerland without modification. No voltage converter, no hunting for "100-240V" on the brick.
Frequently asked
Do I need a travel adapter for Switzerland from United Kingdom?
Yes. Switzerland uses Type C/J outlets, which don't accept United Kingdom's Type G plugs. Pack a Type C/J adapter — or a universal one if you travel often.
What type of plug does Switzerland use?
Switzerland uses Type C and Type J outlets at 230V, 50Hz. Two round pins. Widespread across Europe, South America, and parts of Asia.
What's the voltage in Switzerland?
Switzerland runs on 230V at 50Hz. That's on the high-voltage standard, matching than United Kingdom'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 United Kingdom 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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