# Can you use US appliances and power strips in Australia?

> Dual-voltage devices like phone and laptop chargers work in Australia with a Type I adapter; 120V appliances and power strips need a converter.

Yes, many US devices work in Australia with just a plug adapter, since a North American plug won't fit an Australian outlet on its own. Australia uses 230 volts at 50 Hz and Type I outlets with angled flat pins, while the US uses 120 V at 60 Hz. Phone, laptop and camera chargers are usually rated "100-240V", so they only need an adapter. Appliances rated for 120 V only, such as many hair dryers and curling irons, need a step-down voltage converter or should stay at home.

## Check your device first

Look at the label on the device or its power brick:

- **"Input: 100-240V, 50/60Hz"** – dual voltage. Use a Type I plug adapter only.
- **"Input: 120V" or "110-125V"** – single voltage. Plugging it straight into 230 V can overheat or destroy it. Use a step-down converter rated above the appliance's wattage, or buy a local version.

## Adapter vs. converter

- **Plug adapter:** changes the plug shape. Cheap and small. Does not change voltage.
- **Voltage converter or transformer:** changes 230 V to 120 V. Heavier and limited in wattage; high-power heating appliances need large converters.
- **Frequency:** Australia's 50 Hz (vs. 60 Hz in the US) does not matter for chargers, but some motorized devices and clocks may run slightly differently.

## What usually works and what does not

- **Works with an adapter:** iPhone and Android chargers, laptops, tablets, cameras, most electric toothbrush and shaver chargers.
- **Needs a converter or a replacement:** older or cheap hair dryers, straighteners, kettles and other heating appliances. Many travelers buy a cheap local hair dryer instead.

## FAQ

**Do the US and Australia use the same plugs?**
No. Australia uses Type I plugs with two angled flat pins and often a ground pin; US plugs are Type A and B.

**Will my iPhone charger work in Australia?**
Yes. Apple chargers are dual voltage, so you only need a Type I adapter.

**What happens if I plug a 120V appliance into 230V?**
It can overheat, trip a fuse or burn out within seconds, and it can be a fire risk.

**Can I use a North American power strip in Australia?**
Only if its label says 100-240V. Many US power strips and surge protectors are rated only for 125 V, so plugging one into a 230 V outlet through an adapter can overheat it, even if the devices on it are dual voltage.

**Can you change a US appliance to work on 230 V?**
Only if it has a built-in voltage switch, usually marked 120/240 or 110/220. Otherwise, use a step-down converter rated above the appliance's wattage, or buy an Australian version.

**Do Australian outlets have switches?**
Yes, most wall sockets have a switch. Make sure it is turned on, or your device will not charge.

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https://inyourtravel.com/can-you-use-us-electrical-appliances-in-australia/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-11-04