France Plug Types: Everything You Need to Know

When traveling to France, one of the first things you’ll need to think about is how to charge your devices and stay online.  As the world’s favorite tourist destination, with over 100 million international visitors each year, it’s safe to say you’re not alone in needing to adapt your electronics to local power outlets. Understanding the France plug type will help you avoid any hassle and keep your devices charged and ready.

What Type of Plug is Used in France?

France uses two main plug types: Type C and Type E.

The Type C plug, also known as the Europlug, has two round pins, each 4 mm in diameter, spaced 19 mm apart. Type C is mainly used for low-power devices like phone chargers and laptops

The Type E plug is similar to Type C but has an extra hole for a grounding pin. It’s used for higher-power devices like hairdryers, irons, and large electronics. The grounding pin helps keep things safe by preventing electrical shocks.

Where to Buy Adapters for France?

If you’re traveling to France from a place that utilizes different plug types, you’ll need an adapter to plug in your devices. Here are five options available online:

AmazonBasics 3-Pack Travel Plug Adapter

This 3-pack of Type E/F travel adapter plugs is designed for use in countries across Europe, including France, Germany, and Spain. 

It features a 2-in-1 input that works with standard North American 2 and 3-prong flat pin plugs and supports up to 250V and 10A. 

The compact, travel-friendly design is certified cETLus, meaning it meets safety standards for use in North America. However, it’s important to note that it is not a voltage converter, so you should ensure your devices are dual-voltage compatible before use.

Where to buy: Amazon

Price: $11.87

Ceptics European Travel Plug Adapter

This compact travel adapter is ideal for charging devices like cell phones, laptops, and CPAP machines that are dual voltage compatible. 

It accepts standard North American 2 and 3-prong flat pin plugs, eliminating the need for a universal outlet. 

The adapter is ultra-compact, measuring just 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.75″, and features a Type C output plug that works in most European countries and several others.

Where to buy: Amazon
Price: $11.99

TESSAN European Plug Adapter

This Type C plug adapter is compatible with most European countries and features a 6-in-1 design that allows you to charge up to 6 devices at once, including 2 American outlets, 1 built-in USB cable, and 3 USB ports. 

It comes equipped with 2 USB-A (5V/2.4A) and 1 USB-C (5V/4A) ports, providing fast charging for devices like phones, tablets, and smartwatches, while its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry. 

Note that this adapter only works with 100V to 250V dual voltage devices, so non-dual voltage devices such as hairdryers or electric shavers will require a voltage converter.

Where to buy: TESSAN website
Price: $17.99

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

This all-in-one adapter works in over 200 countries and regions. It has 4 different plugs and the ability to adapt to 10 types of plugs from other countries.

It has 3 USB-C and 2 USB-A ports that support PD3.0 and QC3.0 for fast charging, offering up to 75W of power. PD3.0 (Power Delivery 3.0) and QC3.0 (Quick Charge 3.0) are fast charging technologies that provide quicker charging by adjusting the power sent to your device. 

For safety, it includes a built-in 10A fuse, safety shutters, a plug lock system, and is certified with RoHS (no harmful materials), CE (meets EU safety standards), and FCC (complies with U.S. regulations), plus it comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Where to Buy: Epicka website
Price: $59.99

France Plug Type: Which Adapter Is Right for You?

Now that we’ve explored a few different France plug type adapter options, it can be tough to decide which one is best. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly option or something that can charge multiple devices at once, here are our top picks to help you make the right choice for your trip.

Best value for money:

The AmazonBasics 3-Pack Travel Plug Adapter is a simple, cost-effective solution for travelers needing a reliable plug for French outlets. It supports North American flat pin plugs and meets safety standards for ease of use.

Best for charging multiple devices:

The TESSAN European Plug Adapter allows you to charge up to six devices simultaneously with its 6-in-1 design. Its compact size and fast-charging USB ports make it perfect for travelers with multiple gadgets.

Best all-in-one travel adapter:

The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is a versatile option that works in over 200 countries and supports fast charging. Equipped with multiple ports and advanced safety features, it’s ideal for frequent travelers.

Do I Need a Voltage Converter in France?

You may need a voltage converter or transformer in France if your devices are only rated for 110V, as the standard voltage in France is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. 

Many modern electronics, like phone chargers and laptops, are designed to work with both 110V and 220V, so they won’t require a converter or transformer. 

However, if your device is not dual voltage, such as older appliances, you’ll need a voltage converter to step down the voltage or a transformer for high-wattage devices. 

Always check the voltage rating on your device before traveling to ensure it can handle the higher voltage.

Safety Tips for Using a France Plug Type Adapter

Before you plug in your devices in France, it’s important to ensure you’re using the right adapter for both safety and functionality. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Grounding: For high-power appliances like hairdryers or electric razors, make sure to use a France plug type adapter that includes a grounding pin (Type E). This is a key safety feature.
• Surge protection: Look for adapters that offer surge protection, especially if you are using sensitive electronics like laptops or phones. Power surges can happen in foreign electrical systems, and surge protection helps prevent damage to your devices.
• Quality matters: Always choose a high-quality France adapter plug type, preferably one with a certification mark. This ensures it meets electrical safety standards. Avoid cheap or low-quality adapters, which may overheat or cause electrical faults.

Different Plug Types Across the World

Different countries use different types of electrical plugs. Here’s a list of some of the most common plug types used worldwide:

France Plug Type FAQ

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