Taiwan Plug Adapters: Guide to Taiwan Plug Types & Power

Discover everything you need to know about Taiwan plug adapters, Taiwan plug types, and voltage requirements to keep your devices powered during your trip.

3 Types of Taiwan Plugs & Electrical Outlets

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When traveling to Taiwan, it’s essential to understand the local electrical system to ensure your devices function properly. Taiwan mainly uses two types of plugs and electrical outlets, but their specifications differ from many other regions, especially Europe and Asia.

1. Type A Plug

The Type A plug is the most common in Taiwan. It has two flat parallel pins and is non-grounded. This plug type is commonly used in the United States, Canada, Japan, and several other countries. It’s suitable for devices that do not require grounding, such as most phone chargers, cameras, and other low-powered electronics.

• Compatibility: Travelers from the U.S. and Japan will find that their devices generally work in Taiwan without an adapter, as long as they are dual-voltage.
• Adapter Needed: If your device does not have a Type A plug, you’ll need an adapter.
• Grounding: Type A plugs are not grounded, which is important for users with high-power devices that require grounding for safety.

Type A Plug

2. Type B Plug

The Type B plug is also widely used in Taiwan. This plug has two flat parallel pins, like Type A, but includes a round grounding pin, making it safer for devices that need grounding, such as laptops, hair dryers, or other appliances that draw more power.

• Compatibility: Like Type A, Type B is commonly used in the United States and Canada, so travelers from those countries will find their grounded devices compatible with Taiwan’s outlets.
• Adapter Needed: If your device has a different plug type, you’ll need a plug adapter to fit into the Type B socket.
• Grounding: The grounding pin provides an additional layer of safety, particularly for devices that require it.

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Voltage and Frequency in Taiwan

Taiwan operates on 110V voltage and 60Hz frequency, which is similar to the electrical systems in countries like the United States and Japan.

Voltage in Taiwan

Taiwan uses a standard voltage of 110V, which is lower than the 220V-240V systems used in many European and Asian countries. This means that travelers from regions with higher voltage systems (like Europe or Australia) will need to use a voltage converter for any devices that do not support the local voltage.

Devices from countries like the United States or Japan, where the standard voltage is also 110V, will work without any issues. For those with dual-voltage devices, no converter will be needed—just a plug adapter.

Frequency in Taiwan

The electrical frequency in Taiwan is 60Hz, which matches the systems in the United States and Japan. This means that most devices from these countries will work seamlessly in Taiwan. However, if you are coming from a country with a 50Hz frequency system (such as Europe, Australia, or parts of Asia), your devices might still work, but frequency-sensitive appliances, such as certain clocks or motors, could experience performance issues due to the frequency difference.

How to Choose: Taiwan Plug Adapter or Converter?

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Do You Need a Travel Adapter in Taiwan?

Travel adapters allow your device's plug to fit into a different type of outlet. Taiwan uses Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin) outlets, which are the same as those used in the United States, Canada, and Japan.

• If you are traveling from the US, Canada, or Japan, your plugs will fit without an adapter.
• If you are traveling from the UK, Europe, Singapore, Australia, or other countries that use different plugs (e.g., Type C, E, F, G, I), you will need a Type A or B plug adapter to connect your devices to Taiwan’s outlets.

Do You Need a Voltage Converter in Taiwan?

The voltage in Taiwan is 110V, which is different from the 220-240V systems used in Europe, the UK, Singapore, Australia, and many other regions. To determine if you need a voltage converter, pls check your device’s voltage range:

• Dual-voltage devices (100-240V): These devices are compatible with both 110V and 220V systems. No voltage converter is needed, just a plug adapter.
• Single-voltage devices (220-240V only): These devices, which are common in Europe and other regions, require a voltage converter to step down Taiwan's 110V to the 220-240V needed for your device.

How to Use Travel Adapters and Converters

Just plug your device into the adapter and then into the socket. Only plug one high-power device at a time into adapters or converters.

• Travel adapters: These only modify the plug shape, allowing your device to fit into the outlet. They do not change the voltage. Use an adapter if your plug type doesn’t match Taiwan’s Type A or B outlets, but ensure your device is compatible with 110V voltage before plugging it in.
• Voltage converters: These adjust the voltage from Taiwan’s 110V to match your device’s required 220-240V. Use a converter if your device is not dual-voltage, and ensure the converter can handle the wattage of high-powered devices like hair dryers (600-1200W).

Where to Charge Easily in Taiwan

When traveling in Taiwan, staying connected and keeping your devices charged is essential. Fortunately, Taiwan is well-equipped with numerous charging options, making it easy to charge your devices wherever you go. Here are some of the best places to charge your electronics while traveling in Taiwan:

1. Airports

Taiwan’s major airports, such as Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport, offer plenty of charging stations for travelers. Look for designated charging areas or charging ports at seats in waiting areas and food courts. Charging spots are usually available near boarding gates and lounges as well.

2. Cafés and Restaurants

Most cafés in Taiwan, especially international chains like Starbucks and Dante Coffee, provide charging outlets at tables or along walls. Many local coffee shops and restaurants in popular tourist areas also offer outlets for customers to use while they enjoy their drinks or meals. Just be polite and ask the staff before using them.

3. Train and Bus Stations

Public transportation hubs such as Taipei Main Station and Kaohsiung Station are equipped with charging stations. Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) and Taiwan Railways (TRA) have charging facilities available in some waiting areas, as well as power outlets on some high-speed trains. Look for charging points near the seating areas of newer buses and metro stations in major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung.

4. Public Libraries

Public libraries in Taiwan, especially larger ones like the National Central Library in Taipei, offer free public charging stations. Libraries are also a quiet, comfortable place to rest while charging your devices, and many have Wi-Fi available for use.

5. Shopping Malls

Large shopping malls such as Taipei 101 Mall and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi often have designated charging areas, especially in food courts and lounge spaces. These malls usually provide free access to charging stations for customers, making it convenient for travelers to top up their batteries while shopping or dining.

6. Hotels and Hostels

Most hotels and hostels in Taiwan provide plenty of electrical outlets in rooms. If your room is short on outlets, ask the front desk for a power strip or extension cord. Additionally, some modern hotels have USB charging ports built into desks or bedside tables, which is useful for travelers with USB-powered devices.

7. Convenience Stores

Large convenience store chains like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are ubiquitous in Taiwan and may have charging stations available, especially in high-traffic areas like tourist spots or near public transit stations. While not all locations offer charging, many of the larger stores provide this service, either as wall outlets or USB ports.

8. Power Banks

Given the abundance of places to charge, carrying a power bank is still a good idea if you’re on the move. Power banks are also available for purchase at convenience stores and electronics shops throughout Taiwan if needed.

Where to Buy Taiwan Adapters?

When preparing for your trip to Taiwan, it’s important to have the right plug adapter to fit the local Type A and Type B outlets. Fortunately, Taiwan plug adapters are widely available both online and in physical stores. Here’s where you can find them:

1. Online Retailers

The easiest way to purchase a Taiwan plug adapter is through online retailers that offer a wide range of travel accessories. Some popular platforms include:

• Amazon: Search for “Taiwan plug adapter” or “Type A/B adapter.” You can find a variety of options, from basic adapters to multi-purpose universal adapters that work in multiple countries.
• eBay: Another platform with multiple sellers offering travel adapters for Taiwan.
• Best Buy and Walmart (online stores): Many electronics stores sell travel adapters online, and you can either have them shipped to you or opt for in-store pickup.

2. Travel and Electronics Stores

Physical stores, especially those that specialize in travel gear or electronics, usually stock international plug adapters:

• Airport Stores: Many airports have shops that sell travel adapters, making it convenient to grab one before your flight.
• Big-Box Stores: Stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy often have a section dedicated to travel essentials, where you can find adapters for Taiwan.
• Electronics Stores: Stores like Fry’s Electronics or Maplin (for UK travelers) often have a range of adapters and converters for different countries, including Taiwan.

3. Specialty Travel Stores

If you're looking for a reliable adapter that can last through multiple trips, consider purchasing from specialty travel stores:

• REI: For travelers in the US, REI often carries high-quality travel accessories, including plug adapters.
• Magellan’s: This travel store specializes in gear and accessories for international travel, including adapters for specific regions like Taiwan.

4. Local Shops in Taiwan

If you forget to buy an adapter before you leave, don’t worry! You can still find adapters in Taiwan:

• Convenience Stores: Major chains like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart in Taiwan often sell travel adapters.
• Electronics Stores: Stores like Sunfar or Tsann Kuen are well-known electronics retailers in Taiwan and stock adapters for tourists.

Global Electrical Standards Overview

Globally, there are three main electrical standards for devices: 110-120V used primarily in North and Central America, 220-240V prevalent in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, and the dual-voltage system. These standards also differ in frequency, either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, and include a variety of plug types specific to each region. Understanding these differences is essential for safely using electronic devices while traveling internationally.

Asia & Oceania Electrical Standards

North America & South America Electrical Standards

Europe Electrical Standards

Oceania Electrical Standards