When traveling to Germany, one often overlooked but crucial aspect to consider is the compatibility of power plugs and German sockets (outlets) to charge your devices.
Germany primarily uses type F and C power plugs.
So, you may want to consider getting a travel adapter to charge your devices, if you are coming from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, or other countries outside of Europe (see our table below to find out if you need one).
In this article, we will cover all the essential details about plug sockets in Germany, including their types and compatibility with other countries. Scroll to the end of the article to find a list of the best travel adaptors for Germany.
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What Plug types are used in Germany?
Germany commonly employs two types of plugs: Type C and Type F.
The type C plug, also known as the Euro plug, with two round pins and is designed to fit into most European sockets. It is primarily used for low-power devices.
On the other hand, the type F power plug (also referred to as the “Schuko” plug) is more prevalent for high-power appliances and equipment. It has two round pins like the Type C but also includes two grounding clips on the sides, ensuring a secure and stable connection.
The type F power plug is designed for devices that require a higher current, making it suitable for larger electronics such as computers and kitchen appliances.
Do I need an electrical adapter in Germany?
Yes, if you are traveling to Germany from a country that uses a different plug type, such as the US, Canada, UK, or Australia, you will need an electrical adapter to plug your devices into the German sockets/outlets.
See this table if you need a travel adapter for Germany
Scroll to the left if you are looking at this table on your smartphone
| Your electronics are from..? | Do you need a travel adapter for Germany? | Get a travel adapter |
| Australia | Yes ✅ | Buy it on Amazon* → |
| Austria | No | |
| Belgium | No | |
| Brazil | Yes ✅ | |
| Canada | Yes ✅ | Buy it now on Amazon* → |
| Croatia | No | |
| Cyprus | Yes ✅ | |
| Czech Republic | No | |
| Denmark | No | |
| Egypt | No | |
| Finland | No | |
| France | No | |
| Georgia | No | |
| Germany | No | |
| Greece | No | |
| Hong Kong | Yes ✅ | |
| Hungary | No | |
| India | Yes ✅ | |
| Indonesia | No | |
| Ireland | Yes ✅ | |
| Israel | Yes ✅ | |
| Italy | Yes but just for L types ✅ | |
| Japan | Yes ✅ | |
| Kenya | Yes ✅ | |
| Latvia | No | |
| Lithuania | No | |
| Malaysia | Yes ✅ | |
| Malta | Yes ✅ | |
| Mexico | Yes ✅ | |
| Netherlands | No | |
| New Zealand | Yes ✅ | |
| Norway | No | |
| Pakistan | Yes ✅ | |
| Philippines | Yes ✅ | |
| Poland | No | |
| Portugal | No | |
| Qatar | Yes ✅ | |
| Romania | No | |
| Singapore | Yes ✅ | |
| Slovenia | No | |
| South Africa | Yes ✅ | |
| Spain | No | |
| Sweden | No | |
| Switzerland | Yes ✅ | |
| Thailand | Yes ✅ | |
| Turkey | No | |
| UAE | Yes ✅ | |
| UK | Yes ✅ | Buy it now on Amazon* → |
| USA | Yes ✅ | Buy it now on Amazon* → |
| Vietnam | Yes ✅ |
What to Consider Before Buying a Travel Adapter for Germany
Choose Quality: Choose adapters made from durable materials to ensure they can withstand the rigors of travel.
Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the adapter for easy portability. Look for compact and lightweight designs for convenience.
Multi-Port Options: If you plan to connect multiple devices, look for an adapter with multiple USB or universal ports to charge several devices simultaneously. Life saver!
Safety Features: Check for built-in safety features like overload protection, surge protection, and short-circuit prevention to safeguard your devices.
Voltage in Germany: The standard voltage in Germany is 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz. This is significantly higher than the standard household voltage in North America, which is typically 110V. However, most modern electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and cameras, are designed to handle a voltage range from 110V to 240V without any issues.
You can usually find this information printed on the charger or power adapter of your device. If your device supports this range, all you need is a plug adapter to fit the German sockets.
However, if your device is not compatible with 230V, you will also need a voltage converter that can step down the voltage from 230V to 110V, ensuring that your devices function safely in Germany.
Best Travel Adapters for Tourists Traveling to Germany
1. SKROSS Travel Adapter for Germany
The SKROSS Travel Adapter* is an excellent choice for tourists heading to Germany and other parts of Europe. Designed specifically for Type C and F plugs, which are standard in Germany, this adapter ensures that your electrical devices stay powered up during your travels.
It’s compact and lightweight, making it perfect for packing in your carry-on luggage. Plus, it’s equipped with safety features to protect both you and your devices from electrical surges.
This adapter is ideal for single-device use + 2 USB ports, such as charging your smartphone or camera.
