When traveling internationally, it is important to have the right type of power adapter to ensure that your electronic devices can be charged and used. Two common types of power adapters for travel are transformers and adapters. Although they both serve the same purpose, they work in different ways and have different uses. In this article, we will explain the difference between travel transformers and travel adapters and help you determine which one is right for your needs.
Travel Transformers:
A travel transformer is a device that converts the voltage of the electrical power in one country to the voltage used in another country. This allows you to use your electronic devices in a foreign country without damaging them. Travel transformers typically have a switch or button to change the voltage and can be used with devices that have a built-in power supply, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Travel transformers are essential for devices that are not dual voltage, which means that they can’t handle the voltage of some countries. Travel transformers can convert 110V to 220V or vice versa. This is particularly important for travelers who are going to countries that have a voltage that is different from their home country.
One of the main benefits of a travel transformer is that it allows you to use your electronic devices in a foreign country without damaging them. However, it’s worth noting that travel transformers are typically bulkier and heavier than travel adapters, and they may not be suitable for devices that have a built-in power supply, such as some laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Travel Adapters:
A travel adapter, on the other hand, is a device that allows you to plug your electronic devices into outlets in foreign countries. It does not change the voltage of the electrical power, it only changes the shape of the plug so it can fit into the outlets. Travel adapters are typically small and lightweight, and they can be used with devices that have a built-in power supply, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Travel adapters come in different varieties and are designed to fit into the specific outlets of different countries. For example, there is a different type of adapter for Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America.
A travel adapter is suitable for devices that are dual voltage, which means they can handle different voltages without damage. This is particularly important for travelers who are going to countries that have a voltage that is similar to their home country.
One of the main benefits of a travel adapter is that it is small and lightweight and can be used with devices that have a built-in power supply, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. However, it’s worth noting that travel adapters do not change the voltage of the electrical power, so they may not be suitable for devices that are not dual voltage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both travel transformers and travel adapters serve the same purpose, which is to allow you to use your electronic devices in a foreign country. However, they work in different ways and have different uses. Travel transformers convert the voltage of the electrical power, while travel adapters change the shape of the plug so it can fit into the outlets.
When deciding which type of power adapter to use, it’s important to consider the voltage of the country you will be visiting and whether your devices are dual voltage or not. If your devices are not dual voltage, you will need a travel transformer. If your devices are dual voltage, you can use a travel adapter. It’s always a good idea to double-check your device’s voltage requirement before traveling to make sure you have the right type of power adapter.
For more travel info by country, be sure to check out the Countries page.