Converters For Austria: What To Pack For Your Trip

If you're travelling to Austria from a country that uses 100-120 volts, you'll need to bring a step-down power converter to be able to use your appliances and devices. This is because Austria operates on a 230V supply voltage.

However, if your appliances are dual voltage, you won't need a converter, just a travel adapter, as the voltage in Austria falls within the 110-240V range that dual voltage devices operate on.

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?

If you're travelling to Austria, you'll need to consider what electronics you're bringing and whether they will work in the country. Austria operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The country uses power plugs and sockets of type F, which have two round pins and two earth clips on the side.

Now, here's the difference between a power converter and a power adapter:

A power converter changes the voltage from an outlet to match that of your device. For example, a power converter enables travellers from a country that uses 100-120 volts to use their electric device with a 230 volt Austrian power outlet. Power converters are typically used with single-voltage appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2 hours), such as older-model irons and hair dryers. They are also suitable for appliances that draw more power or generate heat, such as clothes irons and hair dryers.

On the other hand, a power adapter or plug adapter simply changes the shape of the plug on your device to fit into a foreign power outlet. It does not convert the voltage or frequency. Adapters are typically used when travelling to a country with a different power outlet shape from your home country. For example, if you're travelling from the US to Austria, you will need a power adapter to fit your US plugs into Austrian power outlets.

It's important to note that some devices may need both a power converter and a power adapter when used in a foreign country. For example, if the power converter doesn't include the correct shaped plug, you will need to plug the power cord from the converter into a power adapter before plugging it into an Austrian power outlet.

To determine whether you need a power converter or adapter, check the appliance rating plate or the labels on your appliances and chargers. A dual voltage rated appliance will display 'INPUT: 110-240V' on the body or its power supply, indicating that it can be used with a power adapter in Austria. Single voltage appliances will need to be used with a voltage converter or transformer.

Do I need a power converter for Austria if I'm from the US?

If you're travelling to Austria from the US, you will need to consider purchasing a power converter and a power adapter. This is because the voltage from a power outlet in Austria is different to an American outlet (230V at 50Hz in Austria vs 120V at 60Hz in the US). Using the wrong voltage could be dangerous and cause damage to your devices.

However, you may not need to buy a power converter if your appliances are dual voltage. Dual voltage appliances will say a large voltage range separated by a slash, e.g. '100/240V'. If your appliances are dual voltage, you will still need a power adapter, as plugs in Austria are different to those in the US. In Austria, they use power sockets of type C (two round pins) and type F (two round pins with two earth clips on the side). In the US, you use plugs A and B.

If your appliances are not dual voltage, you will need a step-down power converter in Austria to use any 100-120 volt appliance. You should also be extra careful with certain devices because of the difference in frequency. Motorized devices and those containing electronic chips, such as clocks, shavers, and medical devices, may be at risk of damage.

It is recommended that you check your appliances before travelling to Austria to understand the requirements.

What voltage is used in Austria?

Austria uses a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. The standard voltage in Austria is much higher than in some countries, such as the US, where the voltage is 120V. Therefore, if you are travelling to Austria from a country with a lower voltage, you will need a step-down power converter to protect your devices.

Converters and transformers perform a similar function but differ in their applications. 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. In Austria, there are two associated plug types, Type C and Type F. Type C plugs have two round pins, while Type F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side.

Do US plugs work in Austria?

US plugs do not work in Austria. In Austria, they use power sockets (outlets) of type F, which have two round pins and two earth clips on the side. In the United States, you have plugs type A and B. Therefore, you will need a power plug adapter for sockets type F in Austria.

Additionally, the standard voltage in Austria is 230V, which is much higher than the voltage in the United States (120V). As such, you will also need a voltage converter to protect your devices. Without one, you risk serious damage to your devices.

You can purchase a combined travel adapter and voltage converter, which will ensure a safe input voltage level for your devices in Austria.

It is important to note that some devices may not need a converter. If the label on your device states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz', it can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets, laptops, cell phones, and electric toothbrushes. For these devices, you will only need a power plug adapter.

What converter do I need for Austria?

When packing for a trip to Austria, it's important to consider any electrical devices you plan to bring and whether you'll be able to power them. The voltage and power sockets (outlets) in Austria may differ from those in your home country, so it's crucial to be prepared to avoid damaging your devices. Here's a guide to help you determine what converter you need for your trip to Austria.

Understanding Voltage and Power Sockets in Austria:

• Austria operates on a 230V supply voltage and a 50Hz frequency.
• There are two types of power sockets commonly used in Austria: Type C and Type F.
• Type C sockets, also known as Europlug, have two round pins.
• Type F sockets, also known as Schuko, have two round pins and two earth clips on the side.

Determining Your Need for a Converter:

• Check the appliance's rating plate to determine if it is a dual voltage rated appliance.
• If your appliance is dual voltage and can operate within the range of 110V-240V, you won't need a converter. You will only need a travel adapter to plug your device into the Austrian power socket.
• If your appliance is a single voltage rated appliance and does not operate at 230V, you will need a voltage converter in addition to a travel adapter. Using an electrical appliance with a different voltage rating than the power supply can be extremely dangerous.

Choosing the Right Converter and Adapter:

• If you need a converter, make sure to get a step-down power converter to reduce the voltage from 230V to 110V-120V.
• When choosing a travel adapter, select one that matches the type of power sockets in Austria (Type C or Type F).
• Some devices may not need a converter at all. Check the label on your device. If it states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60Hz', it can be used in any country and will only require a travel adapter.
• For USB devices like cell phones or tablets, a USB travel power adapter that is dual voltage and includes a Type F power adapter is recommended.
• If you're bringing devices that require an earth connection, be aware that some travel adapters are not suitable for such appliances. Look for adapters that are safe for appliances requiring an earth connection.

Additional Considerations:

• Check the voltage and power requirements of all the devices you plan to bring to Austria to ensure you have the necessary converters and adapters.
• Research and understand the differences between a power converter and a power adapter. A converter changes the voltage to match your device, while an adapter only changes the shape of the plug to fit the power socket.
• Consider purchasing a combined travel adapter/voltage converter to save space and hassle.
• If you're travelling with multiple devices, a travel power strip or a universal travel power adapter might be more convenient options.

Frequently asked questions