Power Plugs and Sockets in Russia - Do You Need an Adapter?

In Russia, the plug types used are C and F. The voltage is 220 V with a frequency of 50Hz. On the other hand, in Germany, the plug types used are C and F. The voltage in Germany is 230 V with a frequency of 50Hz.

Type C

Type F

What are the plugs like in Russia?

In Russia, the predominant plug types are C and F. If you are coming from Germany, then your devices are of type C or F.

In this sense, you will not have any problems with your electronic devices, as the plugs in Russia are compatible with the devices from Germany.

Special considerations: In Russia, the USSR (along with much of Eastern Europe) used GOST-type sockets with 4mm plugs similar to the Type C plugs of Western Europe, and sockets with 4.8mm plugs like the standard used by Type E/F plugs of Western Europe. Now, the old Soviet sockets are only found in old houses and rural areas. The obsolete standard of 127 V/50 Hz AC is only used in some remote villages. Everywhere else, since the 1970s, it has been replaced by the 220 V standard. The industry uses a three-phase supply of 380 V AC.

Do I need a voltage and frequency converter to travel to Russia?

It is important to know that in Russia the electrical voltage is 220 V, with a frequency of 50Hz. In Germany, the electrical voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50Hz.

For this reason, you will not need a voltage converter to use your devices from Germany in Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below we will answer some of the most common questions asked by travelers going to Russia.

Can I charge my iPhone or Android mobile device in Russia?

If you are travelling from Germany to Russia, you will be able to charge your iPhone or Android mobile device without any problems. Nowadays, these devices are designed to work with wide ranges of voltage and frequency. Additionally, since both countries use compatible plug types, you will not need an adapter in Russia to charge your iPhone or Android.

Can I plug in my laptop charger in Russia?

If you are travelling from Germany to Russia, you will be able to charge your laptop without any problems. Nowadays, laptops are designed to work with wide ranges of voltage and frequency. Additionally, since both countries use compatible plug types, you will not need an adapter in Russia to charge your laptop.

Can I use my hair dryer or straightener in Russia?

Yes, with respect to voltage and frequency, you will be able to use devices such as your hair dryer or hair straightener in Russia without any problems.

What happens if I connect a 230 V device to a 220 V socket without an adapter?

Fortunately, most devices can operate with a small voltage difference. Therefore, you will not have any problem connecting a 230 V device to a 220 V socket in Russia without a voltage adapter. The worst that can happen is that the device will heat up slightly.