Plugs, sockets & voltage

Plugs in Switzerland: the one European adapter that fits

UK plugsBring a UK adapterChecked 22 October 2026

Switzerland uses Type J sockets at 230V, sunk into the wall in a six-sided recess. Bulky European adapters often won't go in. A slim two-pin Europlug adapter (Type C) fits, or buy a Swiss one.

No adapter needed
Bring a UK adapter
Adapter + check voltage

RatingBring a UK adapter

Socket typesJ, C

Areas covered3 on this page

It's a small detail that catches out lots of travellers who assume 'Europe adapter' means everywhere. Liechtenstein uses the same sockets.

What fits

Slim two-pin Europlug adapter (Type C)Bring a UK adapter
Fits Swiss sockets. The best choice for a multi-country trip.
Chunky Schuko (Type E/F) adapterAdapter + check voltage
Usually too fat for the recess. Don't rely on it.
Swiss Type J adapterBring a UK adapter
Fits every socket. Sold at Swiss stations and airports.

Sockets you'll find

Type JSwiss · 230V
Type CEuroplug · 220-240V

Why the Swiss socket is different

Swiss Type J sockets are hexagonal and recessed, with three small round holes. A thin two-pin Europlug (Type C) slides in fine, but chunky Type E/F plugs and many all-in-one travel adapters with thick pins won't fit. Check your adapter has thin 4mm pins or says 'Switzerland' on the packet.

Packing for a ski trip

Boot and glove dryers are often 230V UK plugs. Bring a Swiss adapter or a thin-pin one.
Chalets usually have few sockets. A UK extension lead on one adapter solves it.
Voltage is 230V, the same as the UK, so no converter is needed.
Mountain huts may have limited power. Take a power bank for your phone.

Before you go

Buy a Swiss adapter online before you go. They cost far more at Zurich airport.

Stay and do

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Questions people ask

Does a European adapter work in Switzerland?

Only if it's a slim two-pin type. Thick round adapters usually don't fit Swiss sockets.

What plug does Switzerland use?

Type J, with three round pins in a recessed, six-sided socket. Slim two-pin Type C plugs also fit.

What voltage is used in Switzerland?

230V, the same as the UK, so you only need an adapter.

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Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.