Adapter vs Converter: What's the Difference?

A plug adapter changes the shape of your plug so it fits a foreign socket; a voltage converter changes the voltage so a device built for one voltage can run on another.

You almost always need an adapter; you only need a converter for single-voltage devices used in a country with a different voltage.

A plug adapter is a passive shell: it lets your plug's pins physically connect to a differently-shaped socket. It does not touch voltage, frequency, or power.

A voltage converter (or transformer) steps voltage up or down — for example 230V down to 120V — so a single-voltage device receives the voltage it expects. It is heavier, pricier, and rated by a wattage you must not exceed.

To tell which you need, read the INPUT line on your device label. "100–240V" means dual voltage — an adapter is enough. A single value like "120V" means single voltage — you need a converter, or a dual-voltage replacement.

Check your exact device and destination →

Related guides

Guidance only — not professional electrical advice. Always confirm against your device's label before plugging in. Local wiring (especially in hotels and older buildings) can vary.