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Power inUnited States of America

Plug types
Voltage
120V
60 Hz · Low-voltage zone
Emergency
911
Save before you go
Where are you flying from?—Check whether you need an adapter for United States of America.Check compatibility ↓

The United States uses Type A and B outlets at 120V/60Hz, the NEMA standard shared with Canada, Mexico, and parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Domestic travelers need nothing at all.

International visitors from Europe, Asia, Australia, or Africa need a North American plug adapter. The US has excellent electrical infrastructure, with outlets abundant in hotels, airports, coffee shops, and public spaces.

One quirk: older buildings in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston may have ungrounded two-prong (Type A) outlets that won't accept three-prong plugs. The 120V system means devices from 220-240V countries may charge slower, but any modern charger labeled 100-240V works fine.

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§ 04 · More about United States of America

Things worth knowing before you go.

Quick facts to keep in your back pocket — currency, language, the time difference, which side of the road they drive on.

Capital
Washington, DC
Currency
USD – US Dollar
Language
English
Time zone
UTC-5
Driving
Right
Tap water
Good
Emergency
Save this before you fly. Police, ambulance, fire — all on 911.
911
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§ 02 · Plan with Pluggy
Pluggy AI · Online

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Tell Pluggy where you're going and your dates. We handle weather, packing, the right adapter, eSIM, transport from the airport — all in one conversation.

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Weather
10-day forecast
Packing
Tailored list
Power
Type A / B ready
Food
Local picks
Transport
Airport → city
Tips
From real travellers
§ 06 · Type A plugs
A

The plug used in United States of America.

Hawaii and some older East Coast buildings may have different outlet configurations or voltage variations. US territories like Puerto Rico and Guam follow the same 120V standard, while some military bases overseas maintain US electrical systems.

Full Type A guide →
§ 08 · Common questions
What type of power plug is used in United States of America?+

United States of America uses Type A and Type B power plugs and electrical outlets. The standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz.

Do I need a travel adapter for United States of America?+

United States of America uses plug types that may be compatible with your devices, but carrying a universal travel adapter is still recommended for convenience.

Do I need a voltage converter for United States of America?+

United States of America's 120V is compatible with devices rated for the 100-127V range. If you're coming from a country in a different voltage zone, check your device labels. Single-voltage appliances may need a converter.

Can I charge my iPhone or Android phone in United States of America?+

Yes. All modern smartphone chargers (including iPhone and Android USB chargers) are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work in United States of America. You only need a plug adapter to fit the Type A/B outlets.

Can I use my laptop charger in United States of America?+

Yes. Laptop chargers from Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and other major brands are universal (100-240V). You only need a Type A/B plug adapter for United States of America.

What is the emergency phone number in United States of America?+

The emergency phone number in United States of America is 911. Save this number in your phone before your trip.

§ 09 · Ready to go

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