Singapore Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Singapore, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type G (BS 1363, three rectangular pins in triangular pattern, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 230V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Singapore.
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Do you need an adapter for your trip?
Singapore uses:
Singapore Electrical Outlets Explained
The Singapore power plug follows the British BS 1363 standard, known as Type G, which is the only plug type used throughout the country. This is a 3-pin plug with three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern: a longer earth pin at the top and two shorter pins for live and neutral below. Travelers from countries using two-pin or rounded-pin plugs will need an adapter, since the flat, rectangular plug top of a Type G plug will not fit into any other socket style.
Voltage and Frequency in Singapore
Singapore's electrical supply runs on 230V at 50Hz, in line with most of Asia, Europe, and Africa. Visitors from regions using 100-127V systems, such as the United States, Canada, and parts of Japan, should check whether their devices support dual voltage before plugging in, as a simple plug adapter will not convert the voltage itself. Most modern electronics, including phone chargers and laptops, are built to handle 230V without issue.
Understanding Singapore's Power Plugs and Sockets
Every Type G plug relies on its grounding pin to make the earth connection first and break it last, a design feature that significantly reduces the risk of electric shock. The plug also contains an internal cartridge fuse, rated at either 3A or 13A depending on the appliance, giving each device its own layer of overcurrent protection. Singapore sockets include shutters over the live and neutral holes that only open when the earth pin is inserted, which helps prevent accidental contact with electrical contacts.
Where to Buy a Travel Adapter for Singapore
Travel adapters for Type G outlets are widely available before you even arrive, and picking one up in advance can save time once you land. Airport shops, electronics retailers, and luggage stores in your home country typically stock universal adapters compatible with Singapore's sockets, and they're also sold at Singapore's Changi Airport and local malls if you forget to pack one.
- Airport departure lounges and duty-free shops before your flight
- Electronics and travel goods stores in your home country
- Convenience stores and pharmacies within Singapore
- Shopping malls and electronics retailers like those in Sim Lim Square
- Online marketplaces, useful for ordering ahead of your trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if your home country doesn't use Type G plugs, you'll need an adapter, since Singapore exclusively uses the British BS 1363 three-pin standard. The adapter simply changes the plug shape and does not convert voltage, so check your device's compatibility separately.
Singapore operates on 230V at a frequency of 50Hz. This matches the electrical standard used across the UK, most of Europe, and much of Asia.
Yes, Singapore's Type G sockets are grounded and designed to work with the plug's earth pin, which is longer than the live and neutral pins. This grounding pin also triggers the socket's protective shutters, adding an extra layer of safety.
Pack a Type G travel adapter if your devices use a different plug shape, along with any necessary voltage converters for appliances not rated for 230V. Most modern electronics like phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage, so often an adapter alone is sufficient.
