What each column means

• Country – Click to open a country-specific buying/usage guide.
• Single-phase (V) – Typical household supply voltage (e.g., 230 V or 120 V).
• Three-phase (V) – Common service for larger loads/industry (e.g., 400 V or 208/240/480 V).
• Frequency (Hz) – Mains frequency, usually 50 Hz or 60 Hz.
• Number of Wires – Typical conductors supplied by the utility. Many households are single-phase (line + neutral; protective earth is separate). Three-phase listings often show 4 (L1, L2, L3, N).
• Plug Types – Letter codes (A–N) for socket/plug styles used in that country.

Quick steps

1. Find your destination in the Country column (use the Table search or sorting).
2. Compare your device’s label (e.g., “100–240 V • 50/60 Hz”) to the country’s voltage and frequency.
3. Check the Plug Types to know which plug adapter shape you need.
4. If your device is not dual-voltage, plan for a voltage converter/transformer (see notes below).

Adapters vs. Converters (and Transformers)

• Plug adapter – Changes the shape only. It does not change voltage or frequency.
• Voltage converter/transformer – Changes the voltage (e.g., 230→120 V or 120→230 V). Size it for the device’s watts (add headroom for motors/heating).
• Dual-voltage devices (often labeled 100–240 V • 50/60 Hz) usually need only a plug adapter. For example, many travelers pack a dual-voltage travel hair dryer or a dual-voltage toothbrush.

About frequency (50/60 Hz)

• Most modern electronics (laptop chargers/phone chargers, many appliances with switch-mode power supplies) accept both 50/60 Hz.
• Devices with AC motors, clocks, or timing tied to mains frequency may run differently or require a model rated for the destination frequency.
• Generators should match both the voltage and frequency required by your loads (e.g., 120 V 60 Hz in North America, 230 V 50 Hz in many other regions).

Plug type quick key

The letter codes are international shorthand for socket styles. Common examples (pair with a universal travel adapter):

• A/B – North America/Japan styles (flat blades).
• C/E/F – Continental Europe variants (round pins; E/F are earthed).
• G – UK/Ireland/some Gulf & Commonwealth (rectangular blades with fused plug).
• I – Australia/New Zealand/parts of Oceania (angled flat blades).
• L – Italy (two/three inline round pins).
• D/M – South Asia/Africa variants (round pins in triangular patterns).

Notes for generators & contractors

• Single-phase residential supply is typically 120 V or 230–240 V depending on the country.
• Three-phase service is often listed as 400/230 V (50 Hz regions) or 208/120 V, 480/277 V (60 Hz regions). Ensure the generator output and receptacles match local standards.
• Mind earthing/grounding practices and neutral bonding rules; they vary by country and application.

Safety tips

• Always read the device or appliance nameplate for voltage, frequency, and wattage.
• Choose certified adapters/converters sized above your device’s maximum watts (allow extra for startup surges on motors).
• When in doubt, consult a licensed electrician—especially for high-power appliances, tools, or generator hookups.

Disclaimer: Country standards can change and multiple systems may coexist within the same region. The chart is a helpful starting point; always verify with local codes, your utility, or the device manufacturer.