A great voltage converter is a must-have for vacationers or travelers going to another country with different power requirements. From voltage differences to different-shaped plugs, it is unlikely you’ll be able to travel internationally without a reliable converter. The best power converters in 2025 allow you to travel with your favorite devices without them failing on you because of a voltage difference.
In this post, we reviewed 5 of the top power converters on the market for all travelers, whether you’re visiting a country that uses 110-120V or 220-240V. We also wrote a detailed buying guide that covers just about everything you need to know about finding a great voltage converter and answer some of the questions you have about converters in general. Let’s get started.
The BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter is more than just a run-of-the-mill step-down converter. It is highly sought after and has practical features the average traveler will want from a portable power converter.
BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter features 4 USB charging ports that deliver up to 6A output and can support up to 250W of power. There are also 3 AC outlets for conventional US plugs so you can plug in up to 7 items simultaneously. The converter comes with several universal travel adapters to make your trip through any country a breeze. The BESTEK is also just the perfect size for easy packing.
| Measures 6 x 3 x 1.57 inches | Has a 5-foot detachable cord and universal adapter |
| Converts power from 220-240v to 110v and vice versa | 4 USB ports + 3 power outlets |
Packing for long international trips can be tough, so that’s why the SAUNORCH power converter adapter is perfect. It only measures about 2 x 2 x 2 inches, so it takes up very little space in your carry-on or checked luggage. And, there’s no need to pack additional adapters as this small device has every adapter built into it— just simply slide up the relevant switch and out pops the plug for whatever country you’re in. This device has a Smart IC Chip inside which automatically detects how to convert the power too. There are 4 USB ports on the side of the plug and one AC plug on top, ideal for charging phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and more.
| 4 USB ports | 4 adapters built into the device |
| Measures 2.5 x 2 x 2.1 inches | Smart IC Chip |
When it comes to international voltage differences and outlets, it can be challenging to figure out which hairdryers and other styling tools you can safely use during your trip. Thankfully, the DOACE converter is compatible with all sorts of dual voltage hair appliances, from standard hairdryers and hot air brushes to curlers and straighteners. On the converter, there are 4 USB ports, 2 adapter sockets, and one converter socket which is perfect for hair styling tools and other electronics. To keep everything in one place, this power converter comes with a hardshell case, also making it easier to pack.
| 4 USB ports | Surge protection |
| 3 international plug adapters | Converter outlet for dual voltage hairdryers |
The Key Power international converter gives you plenty of flexibility for your travels. Like every other step-down converter, it regulates 220-240v power down to 110-120v, but it also comes with four USB ports and 3 AC outlets to give plenty of functionality. You can charge your phone while you curl your hair or simultaneously charge your computer. Key Power’s converter can support most travel accessories that can comfortably fit into your travel bag, and even a few not-so-portable items, like an Xbox. The package comes with four adapter plugs and the power converter itself has a handy on/off switch.
| 4 universal adapters | 3 USB A ports and a USB type C port |
| 3 regular AC outlets for US plugs | Surge protection features |
While it may be great to have loads of outlets and ports available on a power converter, sometimes you just need something more simple. This power converter from TryAce is the perfect multi-use gadget that doesn’t take up too much space yet still converts the voltage and has enough space to power multiple devices. There are two USB ports, one AC adapter, and one AC converter, allowing you to use hairdryers, laptop chargers, phone chargers, electric shavers, and more with ease. It only measures about 4 x 2 x 2 inches, and since it has all the features many larger converters offer, this one definitely fits the bill for space-saving needs.
| Small size: 4.3 x 2.1 x 1.9 inches | 3 adapters |
| 2 USB ports, 1 AC adapter, and 1 AC converter | Compatible with dual voltage devices |
Power converters, or voltage transformers, are portable power conversion devices that change the voltage output from the outlets in different countries worldwide. Most countries use one of the two major voltages, with some slight differences– 110-120V AC and 220-240V AC. When you’re traveling to a new locale carrying an appliance, electrical tool, or device that is not built for the voltage available, a power converter can help you step up or step down to the right power level.
Figuring out the best power converter for you can sometimes be as simple as looking up the corresponding values. Other times, it takes a bit of number-crunching and a ton of patience. In this section, we’ll be going over everything you need to know before you buy the best power converter in 2024.
Step-up and step-down voltage converters function exactly as you’d expect they would; they alter the volts flowing from the outlet to match your device’s needs. Step-down voltage converters bring down the electricity in countries that use 220-240 volts down to 110 volts.
Step-up converters do the exact opposite and raise the voltage to match more power-hungry appliances. Most step-up converters serve the secondary function of step-down converters and are commonly referred to as step-up/step-down converters or 2-way converters.
The size of a voltage converter is mostly defined by its wattage. The higher the wattage, the more power it can safely covert. We recommend buying a voltage converter with two to three times the wattage rating for your highest appliance.
For example, power tools, desktop computers, printers, and TVs use up to 500W. If you’re aiming to travel with your laptop and some other devices, you might want to buy a converter with 1500W. The extra wattage buffer serves as a buffer against the initial power surge when you turn on the appliance too.
Most appliances manufacturers list the wattage at the bottom of the appliance or on the side with a sticker or metal plate. You might see something like “900W” on your food steamer, for example.
In the rare case that they do not write out the wattage, you can determine the value with some quick calculation. Multiply the Volts(V) x Amps(A) you find on the sticker, and you’ll get the watt value.
In some countries with unstable power supply, the voltage can sometimes fluctuate, sometimes dipping below or rising above the recommended voltages for your appliances. This results in brownouts and power surges and they can damage your appliances, especially if the rebalance happens without warning.
Voltage stabilizers provide protection from these, and while they are often sold as a separate appliance, a few of the best power converters in 2024 come in with built-in surge protectors or voltage stabilizers. On their box or specification sheet, you’ll find specifics like thermal regulation, short circuit protection, and maximum voltage.
Hertz (or Hz) refers to 1 cycle per second, and it’s the measure of frequency. The 110-120 volts AC used in America and North America cycles 60 times per second. The 220-240V AC used in European countries cycle at 50Hz (or 50 cycles per second). The difference in Hertz can cause differences in timing circuits in older devices like the Analog clock. However, modern devices are not affected by the difference in cycles.
Most voltage converters come with considerable range, whether they’re step up or step down converters.
A step-up converter, for example, will allow 100- to 127-volt devices to operate in countries that use 220, 230, or 240 volts. The same rules also apply to a quality step-up converter. They allow your 100- to 127-volt appliances to operate in countries that use 220 to 240 volts.
Foreign adapters or traveling adapters allow you to connect your appliances to a foreign power outlet. Depending on which country you’re traveling to and whether your appliances use two- or three-pin plugs, you might need a different type of adapter altogether. Two- and three-pin plugs are also called ungrounded and grounded plugs.
There are over 13 shapes of plugs used internationally, and a quick search online should help you place down which countries use which plugs. Many countries, such as France, the UK, and China use types A, C, G, or I.
Adapters often come included in most converters, so figuring out the adapter that comes bundled can help you decide which package suits you best. When in doubt, opt for a universal adapter.
Note that adapters don’t do any sort of voltage converter on their own. They are a channel through which voltage passes.
It’s not uncommon for modern devices like phone chargers, cameras, and laptops to support 120V AC and 240V AC. Gadgets marketed towards international audiences have dual voltages, and they work no matter where you go. You might only need a travel adapter at most to get your appliance set up and working if it has dual voltage capabilities.
The biggest difference between the transformer and the converter is how they convert power. Converters split the sine waves of the AC current in half to meet the voltage requirements, while a transformer lengthens the sine waves. This difference often means you’ll be able to power some appliances like toasters, microwaves, and hair dryers, while you can't power electronic devices like printers.
Yes, but only if you travel a lot. Step-down converters tend to cost a bit more than step-up converters. If you don't travel often, sticking to a basic step-up -- if it's appropriate for your needs-- might be the smarter idea. Or, you can choose a step-up/step-down converter that can do both.
Maybe. Having a Power Delivery and several USB ports on standby is great if you travel a lot and don’t want to deal with the mess of lugging multiple charging cords, power bricks, etc. They are especially great for charging earphones, cameras, and other accessories that don’t support dual voltage. However, you don’t need PD and USB cords to use the outlets in another country— an adapter will do just fine.
AC to DC converters convert alternating current to direct current, often at a higher amperage, while travel converters change AC from a higher voltage to a lower one and vice versa. You may have seen AC to DC converters being used to charge vehicle batteries; these are not necessary for most travel needs.
Our platform offers in-depth reviews and analyses across various product categories, empowering you to shop with confidence and precision. Here, transparency and detailed research pave the way for smart choices that reflect your needs and values. Join our community and elevate your shopping experience from buyer to expert, one report at a time.