Power Adapter
Best Buy customers often prefer the following products when searching for power adapter.
A power adapter is a device that allows you to connect your laptop or tablet to an electrical outlet. It is also known as a power cord, adapter, cable, or wire. The purpose of a power adapter is to provide power to your electronic devices. Browse the top-ranked list of power adapters below along with associated reviews and opinions.
If a power adapter is damaged or goes missing, you don’t have to toss the whole device. Replace the cord with this Insignia NS-AC3000 5' Universal AC Adapter for High-Output Devices Up to 3,000 mA. It’s designed especially for high-power needs, so you can connect a device requiring up to 3,000 mA input. Just select the round-pin connector that fits your power jack from the seven included interchangeable tips. Turn the manual voltage selector knob to pick the voltage that matches your device’s input—with 11 different settings from 3 to 24 volts, you’re sure to find the one you need. An LED indicator conveniently shows which voltage is selected. Plus, the knob is positioned on the back of the adapter to prevent against accidental setting changes once it’s plugged in. An attached 5 ft. cord gives you flexible placement options, so you can easily position your connected device. This simple-to-use universal AC adapter gets your electronics working again.
Canadian Guide to International Power Adapters
With 15 kinds of plugs currently in use across the world, knowing which power adapter you need for next your trip is key. You wouldn’t want to be stuck without being able to charge your phone, computer or trusty camera!
Skyscanner Canada investigates the world of power adapters to create a shopper’s guide for our readers.
How Do I know if I Need a Power Adapter?
Plug types tend to vary from region to region. In Canada, we use type A and B… A is two-pronged and B is three-pronged. The standard voltage here is 120 V. Luckily, both North and Central America use the same plug types as us so you don’t need a power adapter. But if you are travelling to other regions such as Asia, Europe or the UK, you’ll need a power adapting device to be able to use your electronics.
Universal Adapters vs. Specialized
When shopping for an adapter, consider how often you travel and where to. If you travel to the UK periodically, buying a good quality adapter for their G type plug makes sense. But if you are an international jet setter, investing in a universal adapter will save you money in the long run.
Specialized Universal
Pros:
Small, lightweight, compact Chunky and heavy
Inexpensive Slightly more expensive
Cons:
Limited usage Versatile to use in most places
Many have extra features, like USB ports
Adapters vs. Converters
Depending on what you plan to plug in while travelling, you may need a converter instead of an adapter.
The difference between the two comes is the electricity – adapters help fit your electronics into foreign plugs, whereas a converter actually changes the voltage in the outlet itself to. Luckily, not many modern electronics require a converter because they are already dual or multi-voltage items, which means they can operate using multi kinds of electricity. The main item that requires a converter is a hair dryer or other hair items like a curling iron or straightener.
Many good quality adapters are also converters. This is another reason to invest in an all-in-one universal power adapter.
Where to Buy the Best Power Adapters
International power adapters and converters are available widely. In Canada, you can buy them at electronics stores like The Source or Best Buy, at large retail stores such as Walmart, or at adventure shops like Mountain Equipment Co-op. You can also buy adapters of all sorts online on Amazon.
Born Free plug adapters / Skyscanner Canada
Full List of International Plug Types
Region Adapter/ plug in type Voltage in region
USA, Canada, Mexico & Japan Type A & Type B 100 – 127 V
Europe, South America & Asia Type C 220 – 240 V
India Type D 220 – 240 V
France, Belgium, Poland and
Czech Republic Type E 220 – 240 V
Europe & Russia (except for
the UK and Ireland) Type F 220 – 240 V
UK, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia and
Singapore Type G 220 – 240 V
Israel, the West Bank and
the Gaza Strip Type H 220 – 240 V
Australia, New Zealand, China
and Argentina Type I 220 – 240 V
Switzerland and Liechtenstein Type J 220 – 240 V
Denmark & Greenland Type K 220 – 240 V
Italy & Chile Type L 220 – 240 V
South Africa Type M 220 – 240 V
Brazil and South Africa Type N 100 – 240 V
Thailand Type O 220 – 240 V
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