Switzerland Travel Adapters
Type J & Type C • 230 volts • 50 Hz
Switzerland is a landlocked country in the Alps. Geneva has hosted the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross since the organization's founding there in 1863.
Switzerland uses mains electricity supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. Wall outlets use Type J, a three-pin grounded plug unique to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and Type C, the two-pin Europlug used across most of Europe. A Type C plug fits directly into a Type J socket, but without a ground connection, so it works for small dual-voltage electronics; grounded appliances need a dedicated Type J adapter to use the earth pin.
Travelers from the U.S. using Type A or Type B plugs need a travel adapter for Switzerland that covers Type J or Type C. A travel adapter changes the plug shape only and does not convert voltage. Devices marked for 100–240V input can be used on Switzerland's 230V supply with the correct adapter; equipment that is not dual voltage requires an appropriate voltage converter.
What Plug Type Does Switzerland Use?
Click image for adapter details
Adapter may also be spelled adaptor. Converter may be spelled convertor. Grounded may also be described as earthed.
Switzerland uses Type J and Type C outlets. A Type C plug also fits Type J sockets, but without a ground connection, so the Type C prong on the adapter above works throughout Switzerland for ungrounded electronics; grounded appliances need a dedicated Type J adapter.
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Do I need a voltage converter for Switzerland?
Only if your device isn't dual voltage. Most phones, laptops, and cameras are rated for 100–240V and only need a plug adapter for Switzerland's outlets. High-wattage single-voltage appliances, like hair dryers, straighteners, or some CPAP machines, need a voltage converter, not just an adapter. Check the device label for its voltage rating before you travel.
Can I use my US phone charger in Switzerland?
Phone and laptop chargers use a universal 100–240V power supply, so yours will work on Switzerland's 230V supply without a separate converter. You'll still need a plug adapter, since the charger's US plug won't physically fit Switzerland's outlets.
Are Switzerland and US power outlets interchangeable?
No. Switzerland uses Type J and Type C outlets and the US uses Type A/B. The plug shapes are different, and Switzerland runs at 230V compared to 120V in the US, so a plug adapter alone is only safe for devices that already support both voltages.
Does Switzerland use more than one plug type?
Yes. Switzerland uses two official plug standards: Type J, a three-pin grounded plug unique to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and Type C, the ungrounded two-pin Europlug used across most of Europe. A Type C plug also fits into a Type J socket, but without a ground connection, so it works for small dual-voltage electronics; grounded appliances need a dedicated Type J adapter to use the earth pin.
