In Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh:
- Plug type in Edinburgh: G
- Standard voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Your device’s label tells the story
- Recommended plug adapter: One Beat Travel Plug Adapter
This page combines official data from local electricity agencies, international IEC standards, and firsthand experiences shared by travelers who recently visited these countries.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Edinburgh
Traveling to Edinburgh? You’ll need the right adapter to keep your devices powered up. We don’t sell them, but we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Here’s the best one:
No power adapter and already abroad? You’ll likely be able to grab one at the airport or a shop nearby. Still, having your own from the start gives you more control and saves you the hassle of tracking one down after a long flight.
Edinburgh is often visited alongside nearby countries like Ireland or Wales. Make sure to check plug compatibility before you go.
Power Outlets in Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, 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?
You’ll probably need a voltage converter in Edinburgh since your device’s voltage has to match the local power supply. In the U.S., we use 120V, but Edinburgh operates on a different voltage, so a converter is required.
Before packing your electronics for a trip, always check the voltage label. If it says “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, your device is compatible with different voltage systems and doesn’t need a converter. This applies to phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, and rechargeable toothbrushes.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Not sure which voltage converter to get? Take a look at the best-rated ones right here.
| 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
Once you’ve got your plug situation sorted, take a look at these extras. They can help make everything else easier.
More About Edinburgh
Edinburgh sits majestically atop an extinct volcano, with Edinburgh Castle perched on the rim and the Royal Mile stretching just over a mile into the New Town below. This city was the first in the world to have its own fire brigade, and it has more trees per resident than any other UK city—112 public parks and counting. Edinburgh also gifted the world the Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival anywhere, drawing over 4,500 performances from 70 countries annually.
Inside the castle, the Honours of Scotland (Scotland’s crown jewels) are the oldest surviving in the British Isles, and you can still explore hidden windows that once let guards eavesdrop on guests. The city’s literary roots run deep—J.K. Rowling wrote parts of her Harry Potter series in local cafés here, inspired by the atmospheric streets and stone architecture. Dining is never a problem: Edinburgh has more restaurants per capita than any UK city outside London, with choices ranging from traditional pubs to Michelin-starred fusion kitchens.
Over 4.4 million international visitors came to Scotland in 2024, and American visitors alone made nearly 800,000 trips in 2023, spending big and staying over a week on average. Whether you’re soaking in history, joining festival crowds in August, or catching the city dressed up for Hogmanay events, Edinburgh feels both storied and alive. For American travelers who love walkable cities with drama around every corner, it’s hard to top this capital.
Edinburgh uses the same plugs and outlets as the rest of the United Kingdom.