Thailand uses 220V electricity at 50Hz – the same voltage as the UK and Europe, but different from the US (110V). The sockets are a hybrid system that accepts multiple plug types, which can be confusing.
Quick Answer
UK travellers: You need an adapter. UK three-pin plugs don’t fit Thai sockets. No voltage converter needed.
US travellers: You need an adapter. Most modern devices (phones, laptops) don’t need a voltage converter because they’re dual-voltage. Check the label on your charger – if it says “100-240V”, you’re fine with just an adapter.
European travellers: Your Type C (two round pins) plugs will fit most Thai sockets without an adapter.
Thailand’s Socket Types
Thai sockets are unusually versatile. Most accept:
| Plug Type | Description | Compatible? |
|---|---|---|
| Type A | Two flat pins (US/Japan) | Yes – fits most sockets |
| Type B | Two flat pins + ground (US) | Yes – in newer buildings |
| Type C | Two round pins (Europe) | Yes – fits most sockets |
| Type O | Three round pins (Thailand) | Yes – native Thai plug |
This means US flat-pin plugs and European round-pin plugs often work in Thai sockets without an adapter. However, UK three-pin plugs (Type G) will not fit and always require an adapter.
Voltage: Do You Need a Converter?
Thailand uses 220V at 50Hz.
Check your device’s power label. Look for something like:
- “INPUT: 100-240V” = Dual-voltage, works anywhere with just an adapter
- “INPUT: 110V” or “120V” = Single-voltage, needs a converter in Thailand
Devices that are almost always dual-voltage:
- Phone chargers
- Laptop chargers
- Tablet chargers
- Camera battery chargers
- Electric toothbrushes
Devices that may be single-voltage:
- Hair dryers
- Hair straighteners/curlers
- Electric shavers (older models)
- Some US appliances
If your hair dryer only says “110V”, plugging it into a Thai socket will fry it. Either buy a dual-voltage model before your trip or use the one in your hotel.
Which Adapter to Buy
UK Travellers
Get a UK to Type A/C adapter – this covers Thailand and most of Asia. Universal travel adapters also work but are bulkier.
US Travellers
Your plugs may fit Thai sockets directly, but it’s inconsistent. Bring a US to Type C adapter as backup. More importantly, check voltage compatibility on any hair appliances.
For Everyone
A universal adapter with USB ports is the most practical solution. One adapter charges multiple devices, and USB ports handle phones and tablets directly without worrying about plug shapes.
Where to Buy Adapters
Before you go:
- Amazon – widest selection
- Argos, Currys (UK)
- Target, Best Buy (US)
In Thailand:
- 7-Eleven and FamilyMart (basic adapters)
- Big C and Tesco Lotus (better selection)
- IT malls like Pantip Plaza (Bangkok)
- Airport shops (overpriced but available)
Adapters are easy to find in Thailand – don’t panic if you forget one.
Safety Tips
- Avoid cheap multi-adapters that let you daisy-chain plugs – they’re fire hazards
- Don’t overload sockets – older Thai buildings may have limited electrical capacity
- Use surge protectors for expensive electronics like laptops
- Unplug chargers during thunderstorms – power surges are common in monsoon season
Summary
| From | Adapter Needed? | Converter Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Yes | No |
| US | Usually yes | Only for single-voltage devices |
| Europe (Type C) | Usually no | No |
| Australia | Yes | No |
For most travellers, a universal adapter with USB ports solves everything. Check your hair appliances for voltage, and you’re set.
Related
- Thailand Travel Guide
- Travel Adapter Guide
- Thailand Power Plugs & Sockets
- Turkey Voltage Guide
- India Voltage Guide
- Japan Voltage Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What plug types does Thailand use?
Thailand uses Type A (two flat pins), Type B (two flat pins plus ground), Type C (two round pins), and Type O (three round pins). Most Thai sockets accept both US flat-pin and European round-pin plugs.
Do UK travelers need an adapter for Thailand?
Yes, UK plugs (Type G with three rectangular pins) won’t fit Thai sockets. You need a UK to Type A/C adapter to use your devices in Thailand.
Do US travelers need an adapter for Thailand?
Usually yes, though some US plugs may fit Thai sockets directly. It’s inconsistent, so bring a US to Type C adapter as backup to ensure compatibility.
What voltage does Thailand use?
Thailand uses 220V at 50Hz, the same as the UK and Europe. Most modern electronics are dual-voltage (100-240V) and only need an adapter. Check single-voltage hair appliances before use.
Do I need a voltage converter for Thailand?
Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) are dual-voltage and only need an adapter. Check your device label – if it says “INPUT: 100-240V,” you’re fine. Hair dryers and straighteners marked “110V only” need a converter.
Where can I buy an adapter in Thailand?
Adapters are widely available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Big C, Tesco Lotus, IT malls like Pantip Plaza in Bangkok, and airport shops. Buying before travel is cheaper than airport prices.
Can I use my phone charger in Thailand?
Yes, phone chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work in Thailand with just a plug adapter. iPhones, Samsung, and other smartphone chargers are designed for international use.
Will my laptop work in Thailand?
Yes, laptop chargers are dual-voltage. Check the power brick – it should say “INPUT: 100-240V”. You only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter.
Can I use my hair dryer in Thailand?
Only if it’s dual-voltage (100-240V). Most US hair dryers are 110V only and will burn out in Thailand’s 220V sockets. Check the label before plugging in or buy a travel hair dryer.
