Travel Adapters vs Converters: What’s the Difference?
Ever wondered about the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter? We’ve got the answers you’re looking for! While these terms are often used interchangeably, the truth is, adapters and converters aren’t the same thing (and they’re not used for the same purpose). Keep reading to learn more.
Adapters vs converters
A travel adapter lets you plug in your electronic devices to different types of outlets (that is, outlets not used in your home country). Since not all countries have the same shape or size wall sockets, an international adapter is a pretty essential piece of travel gear. Without one, you won't be able to charge things like your phone, laptop, or other daily devices.
A travel converter, on the other hand, converts the voltage of electricity coming from the outlet to match the voltage requirements of your devices. Just like different countries have different styles of outlets, they might also have different voltage standards. If your device isn’t compatible with the voltage of an outlet, it can actually damage that device (and potentially even cause a fire).
When should you use a converter?
As a rule of thumb, you should pack a converter if/when you’re traveling somewhere that uses a different electrical system than the one in your home country. Different countries tend to have their own voltage and outlet styles — which can unfortunately wreak havoc on your devices (if the voltage and device are not compatible).
That said, you only need a travel converter if your devices are not dual-voltage — or if they’re not compatible with the electricity in the country you’re visiting. You can avoid bringing a converter if you make sure your devices are dual-voltage before heading out on your trip.
Keep in mind, most American travelers won’t need a converter when traveling internationally. That’s because modern devices (like laptops and smartphones) are designed to work with a wide range of voltages. Still, it’s important to check your devices just in case. If something isn’t dual voltage after all, then you’ll want to be sure and have a travel converter in tow.
When should you use an adapter?
Like it or not, you’ll almost always need a travel adapter when you leave your home country. Though there may be a few expectations (like if you live in Europe and are traveling to another European nation), for the most part, an adapter will be a necessary part of your packing list.
Note: There are still a lot of variations in plugs and outlets throughout Europe. While a majority of Europe uses C or E/F style plugs, the UK and Ireland rely on type G sockets. Along with that, in parts of Italy, you might see a type L outlet — and in Switzerland, there’s even a J plug.
As you can tell, electrical outlets aren’t exactly a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. That’s why it’s smart to purchase/pack an international travel adapter whenever you leave the country. An international adapter quickly converts the shape and size of the prong socket, so you can safely plug in devices and get them charging without missing a beat.
Wrapping up
While an adapter helps you plug in your devices to foreign outlets, a converter’s job is to change the outlet’s voltage to match whatever device you’re plugging in. So in short, the main difference between a travel adapter and a converter is how they work with (or relate) to electricity.
Remember that a travel adapter only changes the shape of the plug — it doesn’t change the voltage or frequency of the electricity. Meaning, you’ll need an adapter and a travel converter if you don’t already have dual voltage devices.