Vietnam is a popular destination for many travelers who want to experience its rich culture, nature, and cuisine. If you are planning to visit this country, you may be wondering what electrical outlets are used there and whether you will need adapters for your electronic devices. In this article, we bring you useful information and tips to help you prepare for your trip.
What is the voltage and frequency in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, the electric voltage used is 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. This means that if you are traveling from a European country, you should not have a problem with powering your electrical devices such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras, or chargers. Conversely, if you are traveling from the US, Canada, or another country that uses 110V at 60Hz, you will need a transformer to convert the voltage or you could damage your devices. Always check what voltage and frequency your device supports, this is usually indicated on the label or on the charger. For example, if it says INPUT 100-240 V at 50-60 Hz, it means that your device is universal and you can use it in Vietnam without a transformer.
What types of sockets are used in Vietnam?
Different types of sockets are used in Vietnam, which vary according to region, history and influence of foreign countries. Generally speaking, South Vietnam uses Type A and B sockets, which have two flat pins, while North Vietnam uses Type C and E/F sockets, which have two round pins. In some newer hotels, you can also find G-type sockets, which have three rectangular pins. Here is an overview of individual socket types and their description:
Type A: This type of socket has two flat pins that are parallel or slightly angled. This type is mainly used in the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan. The newer version of this socket has the zero pin enlarged, so it is no longer possible to plug it in the other way around. This type of outlet is used in southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.
Type B: This type of socket is similar to Type A, but has an additional grounding pin that is round and longer than the other two. This type is also mainly used in the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan. This type of outlet is used in southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.
Type C: This type of socket has two round pins that are either 4mm or 4.8mm in diameter. This type is also called the Euro plug and is used in many European countries such as the Czech Republic, Germany, France, Spain or Italy. This type of socket is used in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi.
Type E/F: This type of socket is also known as a schuko and has two round pins that are 4.8mm in diameter. In addition, it has two grounding clips on the side or a round hole for grounding. This type is used in many European countries such as the Czech Republic, Germany, France, Spain or Italy. This type of socket is used in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi.
Type G: This type of socket has three rectangular pins that are arranged in a triangle. This type is mainly used in Great Britain, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. This type of outlet is used in some newer hotels in Vietnam, especially in Da Nang or Nha Trang.
Type A: This type of socket has two flat pins that are parallel or slightly angled. This type is mainly used in the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan. The newer version of this socket has the zero pin enlarged, so it is no longer possible to plug it in the other way around. This type of outlet is used in southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.
Type B: This type of socket is similar to Type A, but has an additional grounding pin that is round and longer than the other two. This type is also mainly used in the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan. This type of outlet is used in southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.
Type C: This type of socket has two round pins that are either 4mm or 4.8mm in diameter. This type is also called the Euro plug and is used in many European countries such as the Czech Republic, Germany, France, Spain or Italy. This type of socket is used in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi.
Type E/F: This type of socket is also known as a schuko and has two round pins that are 4.8mm in diameter. In addition, it has two grounding clips on the side or a round hole for grounding. This type is used in many European countries such as the Czech Republic, Germany, France, Spain or Italy. This type of socket is used in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi.
Type G: This type of socket has three rectangular pins that are arranged in a triangle. This type is mainly used in Great Britain, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. This type of outlet is used in some newer hotels in Vietnam, especially in Da Nang or Nha Trang.
What adapters do you need for your trip to Vietnam?
If you are traveling from a European country, you probably don't need any adapters to travel to Vietnam as your Type C or E/F plugs will be compatible with Vietnamese Type C or E/F sockets. However, if you want to be prepared for anything, you can bring a Type G adapter that will allow you to use your device in Type G outlets that may be found in some hotels.
If you're traveling from the U.S., Canada, or another country that uses Type A or B plugs, you'll need a Type A, B, C, or E/F adapter, depending on which type of outlet is used where you're staying. Also don't forget a voltage conversion transformer if your device doesn't support 220V.
Conclusion
Electrical outlets in Vietnam vary by region and history. In general, South Vietnam uses type A and B sockets, while North Vietnam uses type C and E/F sockets. In some newer hotels, you can also find G-type sockets.
Electrical outlets in Vietnam vary by region and history. In general, South Vietnam uses type A and B sockets, while North Vietnam uses type C and E/F sockets. In some newer hotels, you can also find G-type sockets.