In Birmingham, they use Type G power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
So, you’ll need a travel adapter in Birmingham. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in Birmingham:
- Plug type in Birmingham: G
- Standard voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Device-specific — check before you pack
- Recommended plug adapter: One Beat Travel Plug Adapter
Our information is based on official power regulations from each destination, international IEC standards, and input from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Birmingham
Planning a trip to Birmingham? Make sure you have the right adapter. We don’t sell them, but we’ve done the research to find the best one for your trip—safe, tested, and traveler-approved:
If you’re already on your way or at your destination without a power adapter, don’t stress. You can usually find one at the airport or in a local shop. Still, bringing one from home helps you avoid delays and start your trip with one less thing to worry about.
Birmingham travelers often combine their visit with Ireland, Wales, or Scotland. Check what plug type you’ll need in each place.
Power Outlets in Birmingham
In Birmingham, they use Type G power plugs and outlets.
Type G
Type G outlets have three rectangular prongs in a triangular layout and built-in fuses. Other plug types won’t fit without an adapter.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Since the voltage in Birmingham doesn’t match the U.S. standard of 120V, you’ll likely need a voltage converter to avoid damaging your devices.
Before using your electronics in another country, always check the voltage rating on the label. If it reads “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, it will work on both 120V and 220-240V power sources without a converter. This is standard for tablets, laptops, cameras, and rechargeable grooming devices.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Want peace of mind while traveling? These top-rated voltage converters are a safe bet.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
With the basics covered, these are the extras that seasoned travelers always bring along. Simple tools that do a lot.
More About Birmingham
Birmingham sits almost smack‑dab in the center of England, which means you can reach about 90 percent of UK destinations in under four hours by train. It’s an industrious city with modern flair and over 8,000 acres of parks—making it green, balanced, and surprisingly spacious. For music fans, the Black Sabbath Bridge tribute bench on Gas Street draws fans all the way from New York. And art lovers will dig the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, home to the world’s largest collection of Pre‑Raphaelite paintings.
Birmingham is thought to be the youngest city in Europe, with almost 40 percent of residents under 25, thanks in part to its five universities and lively student population. That energy comes alive in festivals like Bangla Mela or the Heritage Festival, which feel vibrant and multicultural. Don’t miss the chance to tour Spaghetti Junction—the famously complicated Gravelly Hill interchange that now offers guided tours to see underground art, canals and wildlife beneath the concrete. It’s quirky, cool, and speaks to the city’s love of big ideas.
For U.S. visitors looking for a city that’s not London but still accessible, Birmingham delivers realness at a lower price. It’s English‑first with easy transport and neighborhoods where nightlife, food, green spaces, and culture mix effortlessly. If you want to catch a show at the UK’s busiest theatre or check out local dining that spans Indian curry houses to Michelin‑starred tables, you’ll leave impressed—and maybe surprised that you’ve underestimated this city.
Birmingham uses the same plugs and outlets as the rest of the United Kingdom.