International Power Converters : Micro Center (2024)

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Shop International Power Converters

While the U.S., Canada, and Mexico all share the same 110 volt wall AC power outlet, countries in South America, Asia, and Europe often use electrical outlets with different voltages and plug designs. Fortunately, there is an easy solution for travelers: adapter plugs, also known as voltage converters or transformers.

To use one of these adapters, just snap it on to the electrical plug of your charger, hair dryer, or any other small electronic devices you are traveling with. The adapter will allow you to plug your device or its charger directly into a foreign plug, automatically converting the AC power to the correct voltage needed to power your device, via either a step up or step down transformer depending on whether you want to raise or lower the output voltage. With your device powered up, you will be ready to get the most from your international adventures.

Where Are You Traveling?

Look up your destination countries on the IEC World Plugs List. It is best to be prepared, so note the outlet voltage and plug design used in the countries you will be visiting.

AC Voltage: Most countries use either 110V AC power like the U.S., Canada, and Mexico or 220V AC power like the United Kingdom, EU countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, and most Asia Pacific countries. Some countries use a slightly higher or lower voltage, like 230V or 100V, but most devices have a tolerance range that allows them to use a power supply within approximately 20 volts of their rating.

Plug Design: Several different plug designs are in common use around the world today, so look carefully at which kind of plug your destination country uses. Even if they use the same AC voltage as your home country, the plug layout may be different and thus require an adapter.

Finding the Right Travel Power Adapter

For most people today, the easiest way to make sure you always have the right power adapter is to purchase a travel adapter kit. These all in one kits include a variety of adapters designed to accommodate outlets in various global destinations. Almost every adapter set will include adapters for the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, China, and Japan. Many also include plugs for use in a variety of countries in Africa, the Middle East, and South and Central America.

Todays power adapters often feature an all in one design, with multiple plug adapters that you can easily swap onto the same wall unit. In addition, some feature USB ports with built in DC converters that allow you to directly charge devices like cell phones and cameras without the need for an additional DC power unit. Check the required DC voltage of your devices first, however.

Ready to find your international power solution? Shop Micro Center’s international power converters here — or check out our full range of power adapters and inverters, including fast charging adapters for your phone and laptop.