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 North Korea, the plug types used are A, C and F. The voltage in North Korea is 110-220 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 North Korea, then your devices are of type A, C or F.

In this sense, you will have to be more careful. Depending on where you stay, you may find valid plugs for your devices or not. We recommend that you always buy an adapter to avoid any worries.

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 Everywhere else, since the 1970s, it has been replaced by the 220 V standard.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 North Korea, the electrical voltage is 110-220 V and the frequency is 50Hz.

Since North Korea uses a wide range of voltages, you will not have a problem plugging in your devices in Russia as long as it matches the voltage there, which is 220 V.

Regardless of whether you need a voltage converter or not, you need a plug adapter, because the plug types are different 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 North Korea to Russia, you will need an adapter to charge your iPhone or Android mobile device. While it is true that nowadays these devices are designed to work with wide ranges of voltage and frequency, it should be remembered that both countries have incompatible plug types, so you may 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 North Korea to Russia, you will need an adapter to charge your laptop. Generally, these devices are designed to work with wide ranges of voltage and frequency, but it should be remembered that North Korea and Russia have incompatible plug types, so an adapter may be necessary to charge your laptop in Russia.

Can I use my hair dryer or straightener in Russia?

You will have to be careful when using your hair dryer or hair straightener in Russia. These devices are not usually dual voltage, so you should pay attention to ensure that the voltage of the hair dryer/straightener is the same as the socket you are going to use. To be able to use these devices with peace of mind, we recommend that you purchase a voltage adapter.

How do I know if my electrical device is dual voltage?

To know if your electrical device is dual voltage, you must check the label or product specifications. If the label indicates a voltage range, such as 100~240V and a frequency range like 50~60Hz, then your device is dual voltage and can be used without any problems. If your device is not dual voltage, then you will need a voltage converter to be able to use it in sockets in Russia with a different voltage than your device.

However, remember that dual voltage only affects the voltage and frequency.Since you are travelling to Russia from North Korea and there is not full compatibility, you may still need a plug adapter.

What happens if I connect a 110 V device to a 220 V socket without an adapter?

Under no circumstances should you attempt to connect a 110 V device from North Korea to a 220 V socket in Russia without a voltage adapter. Doing this poses a great danger and the device could cause a fire. Before travelling to Russia, make sure you have a voltage adapter.