Austria's Plug Predicament: European Standard Or Unique?

If you're planning a trip to Austria, it's important to know what kind of power plugs and sockets are used there. Austria uses 230V, 50Hz electricity, and the standard plug types are Type F (also known as Schuko) and Type C. Type F plugs have two round pins and two earth clips on the side, while Type C plugs have two round pins. These are the same types of plugs used in much of continental Europe, including Germany, Greece, Portugal, Sweden, and Spain. So, if you're travelling from the UK or the US, for example, you'll need to pack a suitable travel adapter to use your electrical devices.

Plug types in Austria

Austria uses two types of plugs and sockets: Type C and Type F. Type C plugs have two round pins, while Type F plugs have two round pins and two earth clips on the side. These plugs are also known as Schuko plugs.

The standard voltage in Austria is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. This is the same voltage and frequency used in the UK, but UK plugs are different and will not fit Austrian sockets, so UK visitors will need a travel adapter. The US also has a different voltage and frequency to Austria, so US visitors will need a combined adapter and converter.

Type C plugs are considered outdated and unsafe in Austria, as they are not earthed. Type F sockets, on the other hand, are grounded and therefore safer. Type E plugs can also be used in Type F sockets.

If you are travelling to Austria, it is important to bring the appropriate travel adapter to fit the local sockets. You can find versatile, high-quality adapters that cover both Type F and Type C. Amazon offers a range of suitable options with fast delivery.

Do UK plugs work in Austria?

If you're travelling from the UK to Austria, you will need to bring a travel adapter to plug in your devices. This is because Austria uses Type F sockets, which are different from the Type G sockets used in the UK.

Austrian sockets are compatible with Type F and Type C plugs. Type F sockets are also known as Schuko sockets and have two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Type C plugs also have two round pins, but no earth clips. Both types of plugs are used in Austria and much of continental Europe, including Germany, Greece, Portugal, Sweden, and Spain.

While a travel adapter will allow you to physically plug your UK devices into Austrian sockets, it will not change the voltage or frequency of the supply. Fortunately, the voltage in Austria (230 V) is compatible with all UK appliances, and the frequency in Austria (50 Hz) is the same as in the UK. Therefore, you won't need a voltage converter or transformer.

Voltage and frequency in Austria

Austria's standard voltage is 230V and its frequency is 50Hz. If you are visiting Austria, you will need to check the voltage and frequency of the country where your appliances were purchased. If the voltage and frequency are different, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer.

For example, if you are visiting Austria from the US, you will need to use a suitable power adapter to fit a US plug into an Austrian power outlet. Because the voltage is different in Austria, you will also need to bring a power converter for Austria if your device isn't dual voltage. If your device can run on 230 volts or is dual voltage and your plug fits in an Austrian power outlet, then it should work in Austria without needing anything else.

If your device is 230 volts or is dual voltage but your plug doesn't fit in an Austrian power outlet, you'll need a suitable plug adapter for Austria, such as a Type C or Type F power adapter.

It is important to note that some travel adapters are not suitable for any appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adapters should only be used with double-insulated equipment.

Where to buy travel adapters in Austria

Austria uses the 2-pin Schuko socket and plug system, also known as Type F. This is the same system used in much of continental Europe, including Germany, Greece, Portugal, Sweden, and Spain. These sockets are also compatible with the Europlug and the CEE 7/7 plug.

If you're travelling to Austria from a country that uses a different plug system, such as the UK or the US, you will need to buy a travel adapter. Here are some places where you can buy travel adapters in Austria:

Vienna Airport

If you're arriving in Austria by plane, you can purchase a travel adapter from the newsagent in the arrivals hall of Vienna Airport. The store sells books, international papers, and travel adapters. Look for the Relay signs at arrivals—the store is located opposite the exit from the baggage collection and customs area.

Electronics Stores in Vienna

In Vienna, you can find travel adapters in the large electronics stores. The main chain is MediaMarkt, which has several outlets across the city. At the time of writing, MediaMarkt stores can be found at the Wien Mitte railway station (where the express train from the airport arrives) and in the Gerngross department store on Mariahilfer Straße, a popular shopping street.

Online retailers

If you prefer to shop online, websites like Amazon offer a range of travel adapters specifically for Austria. You can find adapters that are designed for use with North American electrical plugs, as well as universal adapters that can be used in multiple countries.

Your accommodation

If you're staying in a hotel or a rented apartment, it's worth asking the staff or your host if they can provide you with a travel adapter. Sometimes, accommodations will have adapters available for guests to borrow or purchase.

Voltage converters and transformers

Converters and transformers perform similar functions but differ in application. Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2 hours), while most transformers can be used with appliances that operate continuously. It is important to note that travel adapters do not convert voltage or frequency.

When selecting a voltage converter or transformer, it is crucial to check the maximum power rating (AMPS or WATTS) and ensure that any appliance you intend to use does not exceed this rating. Most voltage converters and transformers come supplied with plug adapters.

For those travelling from the UK or the US to Austria, a combined adapter and converter will be required due to the voltage and frequency differences. These can be purchased online or at electronics stores in Austria.

Frequently asked questions