Latest news with #Epicka
NBC News
12-05-2025
- NBC News
The best travel adapters for the next big trip
Let's be real: no one wants to worry about plug types or voltage conversion on vacation. That's why you need a great travel adapter — with the right model, you can plug in your chargers and electronics like you normally would at home. That's why I spoke with electronics experts: to better understand how adapters, voltages and electricity work. With their advice in mind, we selected the best travel adapters for your next big trip. What is a travel adapter? Travel adapters typically come in two shapes: plug adapters and universal adapters. In America, plug adapters have electrical prongs on one side and two or three pronged U.S. slots on the other. If you are traveling to the U.K., for example, your adapter will plug into rectangular-shaped U.K. outlets, and have slots where you can plug your two or three pronged U.S. devices into the adapter. Universal adapters contain multiple plug adapters in one base. Typically, different electrical prongs slide in and out of the base via levers or buttons. Travel adapters are typically intended to charge electronics like smartphones, laptops, headphones and portable batteries, says Sandra Miller, product manager at Ceptics, a travel adapter manufacturer. How we picked the best travel adapters We spoke with electronics experts and asked NBC Select staffers about their experience using travel adapters. We selected products that met the following criteria: The best travel adapters in 2025 Most of our top picks come from established travel adapter brands like Epicka and Ceptics, including one option we've taken all around the world. Editors' pick: Epicka Pulse 45W Universal Travel Adapter I've used Epicka travel adapters on my international trips for years. They've been in France, Italy and the U.K. and have always charged my small electronics perfectly. NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider recently took this one to Paris — it charged all her family's gadgets without issue. It has a main 3-prong plug plus two USB-C and two USB-A ports along the bottom, meaning you can easily charge multiple devices at the same time. This model has faster power delivery and better USB port options than our previous top pick from the brand. This is a low-priced universal travel adapter that still has all the necessities: sliding adapter plugs, multiple USB-ports and fuse protection. The USB-C port can fast charge at up to 20W, not quite as fast as our editors' pick, but still enough to fast charge your smartphone and earbuds. Individual plug adapters can be useful if you are traveling ultralight. This top-rated set includes five different plugs for countries like the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. Each plug is labeled with the countries and continents you can use it in. Most of the plugs have a ground port which helps to protect your devices against power surges, according to the brand. Consider this converter If you are bringing larger devices that will need their voltage adjusted while abroad — think electric shavers and curling irons. This voltage converter adjusts incoming electricity to fit the 110 to 120-volt requirement for U.S. electronics to work properly. It can power devices with up to 230 watts of energy — check your device to make sure it uses less than 230 watts. The converter has fans built in that prevent overheating and short-circuiting, according to the brand. It has multiple USB ports and two power outlets, making it a good option if you need to charge multiple devices at the same time. It comes with four different plug types and a detachable power cable. How to shop for a travel adapter To make sure you buy the right adapter for your trip, it's important to check what kind of electrical plug is used in your destination. It's also a good idea to contact the place you'll be staying to ask what kind of outlets they use, says Carl Prouty, the technologist at Abt, a national electronics and appliances retailer based in Glenview, Illinois. What kind of travel adapter do I need? There are over a dozen types of common plugs used across the world, according to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global not-for-profit organization that works to improve international electrical trade and innovations. Each plug type is given a letter depending on which regions they're compatible in. Many countries share the same plug type — type C plugs, for example, are used across most of Europe. Some countries use different plug types depending on where you are in the country and when the electrical outlets were last updated— Italy uses three types (C, L and F). Travel adapters, including our recommendations, list the regions they support by name or by plug type letter. Below is a world plugs list from the IEC: Type A (two prong): North America, Central America, Japan Type B (three prong): North America, Central America, Japan Type C: Europe (except UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta) Type D: India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia Type E: France, Belgium, Slovakia and Tunisia among others Type F: Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Spain among others Type G: UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong Type H: Israel Type I: China, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina Type J: Switzerland and Lichtenstein Type K: Denmark and Greenland Type L: Italy Type M: South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho Type N: Brazil Type O: Thailand Frequently asked questions What is voltage? 'Voltage is essentially the pressure required to push the electrons coming out of the wall socket through the power cord that goes into your device, allowing that device to operate,' says Prouty. Countries around the world have different voltage ratings for their electricity. North American power outlets use 110 to 120-volts — most electronics made in North America are designed to operate in that voltage range. Countries outside of North America typically have 220 to 240-volt outlets, and design their electronics to function in that range. Products like smartphones, laptops and tablets are exceptions: they operate on a worldwide voltage range — as long as you have the right adapter, you can charge them in most places, according to our experts. When traveling abroad with other types of devices, you need to match your destination's plug type as well as its voltage rating in order to safely use your electronics. If you connect a device to an outlet with mismatched voltage ratings, you risk damaging the device, burning it out or causing an electrical fire, says Miller. All electronics have a voltage rating printed on either the charger or the device itself, says Miller. Larger electronic devices like curling irons, hair straighteners and hair trimmers typically operate at a specific, limited voltage range. If you plan to travel with one of those devices, you will need a travel voltage converter to safely use them. What is a travel voltage converter? Voltage converters change the voltage of the outlet at your destination. This is crucial if you want to use single-voltage electronics like hair and curling irons abroad. Hair and curling irons need a lot more power than small devices like smartphones and earbuds. That's why travel voltage converters will typically have a power rating, measured in watts (W), that tells you how much power they can deliver to a plugged-in device, says Miller. 'For example, a 200W voltage converter is limited to devices that require 200W or less, so you can't use a 1,500W hair dryer with it,' says Miller. Connecting a device outside the supported wattage range can damage both the device and the voltage converter. Do I need a voltage converter? Miller recommends checking the voltage rating of all the electronics you plan to travel with to see if any require conversion. Essential electronics like cell phones, tablets and laptops are typically rated for worldwide (100 to 240) voltage use and do not require conversion. The most common travel electronics that require voltage conversion are hair straighteners and curling irons, says Miller. If you plan on using one, pack one with a worldwide voltage rating to eliminate the need for a voltage converter. If you are traveling with an item that requires voltage conversion, look up the power rating (in watts) of the device, and make sure your voltage converter supports at least that much power output (in watts). For example, an expert-recommended curling iron like the Babyliss Pro Nano is rated for 120 volts and needs 140 watts to operate. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Carl Prouty is a product specialist with over 20 years of experience in consumer electronics sales at Abt. (Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Prouty about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.) Sandra Miller is a product manager at Ceptics, a travel adapter manufacturer. (Since Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Miller about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask her for specific product recommendations.) Why trust NBC Select? I am a reporter at NBC Select who covers technology and fitness including recent stories on smartwatches, running shoes, over-ear headphones and more. To better understand travel adapters, I spoke with electronics experts about the intricacies of travel adapters and voltage. I also spoke with NBC Select staff about their experience using travel adapters.
CNN
19-04-2025
- CNN
12 of the best travel adapters and converters for your next trip abroad
Traveling internationally requires serious planning to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch. Between booking flights and hotels, packing the right travel gear can often get lost in the mix — and that can be detrimental, especially if you forget an international power adapter. International adapters let travelers charge dual-voltage devices in any electrical outlet by converting the shape and size of the prong socket — and without being tied down to (potentially dangerous) USB charge points in hotels and airports. There are also power converters, which convert the voltage of your electronics to avoid blowing a fuse in your hotel room or burning out single-voltage devices. These are often required for hair straighteners, clothes steamers and similar appliances. Selecting the right travel adapter or converter can be tricky. You need to consider your destination, the devices you need to charge and the number of outlets and USB ports required. This is particularly important when traveling with multiple gadgets. 'A good international adapter can make or break your trip,' says Scott Mayerowitz, travel industry expert and founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies. 'Access to outlets and USB charging points is so inconsistent. At some airports and hotels, there are plenty of outlets and charging ports while at others you are scrambling for that one outlet hidden away behind a nightstand.' Here are some of our favorite travel adapters and converters to keep you charged around the world. Universal power adapters work in most regions worldwide, so you can use the same adapter on all your future trips. Many have built-in USB-A and USB-C ports for easy device charging, as well. Just note that they do not convert voltage, so don't use them with single-voltage devices like hairdryers. Epicka Universal Travel Adapter with USB-C This is Mayerowitz's pick for an international power adapter because it has multiple USB-C ports, including a 70-watt port that can charge his MacBook Air without having to plug in another power adapter. Epicka Mini Universal Travel Adapter This is the smallest international travel adapter I've seen. It's barebones — there are no USB ports, just a US-style plug for conversion — but it works with most plugs, including UK, EU, AU and others. And at just $10, it's perfect for travelers on a budget. Saunorch Universal Travel Power Adapter This budget-friendly universal power adapter is another CNN Underscored favorite, largely because of its low price. When I tested the device, I had no issues using it in 10+ countries. It also has one USB-C port and three USB-A ports. Targus World Power Travel Adapter The Targus World Power Travel Adapter has individual adapters for each region, all contained in a case that's little more than the size of a pepper grinder. If you're only visiting a single country, take individual adapters to save space in your luggage. If you're heading to Europe, these adapters will work great across the region and in non-European countries like Morocco that use EU-style outlets. The universal adapters highlighted in the previous section also work in Europe. One thing to note. Some of these power adapters do not work in the UK and Ireland unless specifically noted. These countries use a different outlet (type G) than the rest of Europe. Foval European Travel Plug Adapter This is my power adapter of choice for trips to Europe. It has four USB-A ports, a USB-C port and three US plug outlets, plus a 5-foot cable. The device has a built-in European plug and includes US and UK our review Orei European Power Plug Adapter, 3-Pack This small European power adapter has two US-style outlets: one grounded and one ungrounded. You can use both at the same time, perfect for charging a phone and a tablet with their US power blocks. This three-pack means you have enough adapters for the whole family. Anker European Travel Plug Adapter I like this European adapter because it's compact and has two US-style plugs (one grounded, one not grounded), two USB-C ports and a USB-A port. The charger can output up to 15 watts through the USB ports for relatively quick charge speeds. Looking to charge your smartphone, smartwatch and other gadgets worldwide and don't need a US-style AC outlet? These devices have you covered. Satechi GaN Travel Charger Our travel products editor swears by this travel power adapter. It has four USB-C ports with a combined total output of 145 watts, so you can quickly charge phones, MacBooks and more. Plus, it includes US, EU, UK and AU power our review Apple World Travel Adapter Kit The Apple World Travel Adapter Kit includes converters that pop right on your existing MacBook charger so it can work throughout North America, Japan, China, the UK, Europe, Korea, Australia and beyond. Plus, it has the iconic all-white Apple aesthetic that matches the rest of your devices. Twelve South ButterFly 2-in-1 MagSafe Charger This premium wireless charger has been in our senior money and travel editor's backpack for the past couple of months. Not only does it charge his iPhone and Apple Watch, but it includes a 30-watt USB-C charger with US, UK, EU and AU plug our review If you need to use single-voltage devices — think electric razors and hair straighteners — abroad, you'll need a power converter. These drop voltage from 220V to 110V, so you can use them safely. Just make sure you read the specifications of the adapter you're using to ensure it works with your devices. Note you do not need these to charge most smartphones, laptops and other dual-voltage devices. However, since power converters have multiple outlets, you can use them alongside other devices. Key Power 230W Step Down 220V to 110V Voltage Converter This universal travel adapter was made for digital nomads and those taking a working vacation. The compact design easily fits into a travel backpack or carry-on bag, but the best part is the built-in USB ports and an extension cord that lets you plug in a laptop or tablet on the other side of the room. It is compatible with five socket types: UK, EU, US, Australia and India. It claims to work with single-voltage devices like electric razors, curling irons and electric toothbrushes. Foval Power Step Down 220V to 110V Voltage Converter This multi-use power converter can accommodate up to four smartphones at once and also has two standard plugs for charging or using larger electrical devices like laptops or hairstyling products like straighteners or curling irons. However, do not use devices that produce more than 230W with this device, like hair is the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter? What is the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter? A travel power adapter makes it so you can use your existing chargers and devices with other types of power outlets, but it does not convert voltage. You can only use travel power adapters for dual-voltage devices, which includes most laptop and phone chargers. Meanwhile, a travel power converter changes voltage so you can use some single-voltage devices abroad. For example, if your curling iron is only rated for 110-120V, you need a converter to safely use it in 220-230V countries. It's important to know that power converters — especially ones designed for travel — do not support all devices. Hairdryers, for example, are too high-powered for many of these converters. Do your own research and make sure your single-voltage devices are compatible with the power converter you buy. What appliances need a converter? What appliances need a converter? Single-voltage devices need a power converter. An appliance's supported voltage is often listed on the bottom of the appliance or near its plug. So if your appliance of choice only supports 110-120V and you're traveling somewhere with 220-230V, you'll need a power converter to use it. What happens if you use the wrong power adapter? What happens if you use the wrong power adapter? Using a device made for 110-120V outlets in a 220-230V outlet could damage the device and the outlet it's plugged into. Worst yet, it could pose safety risks.
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Epicka Unveils Pulse 45W Universal Travel Adapter: Fast-Charging for Modern Travelers
Delivering a pulse of power—faster, safer, and more efficient travel charging solutions. LAS VEGAS, March 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Epicka, the #1 universal travel adapter brand in the U.S. (1), proudly introduces the all-new Pulse 45W universal travel adapter—an innovative leap in travel charging. Whether you're an international traveler, digital nomad or adventure enthusiast, the Pulse 45W adapter ensures true, sustained power for all your devices; Unlike ordinary travel adapters that reduce voltage and compromise performance. With guaranteed reliability, it keeps you powered up anytime, anywhere. Now available on and in the United States for $29.99. Global Compatibility: Power Meets versatility The Pulse 45W universal travel adapter featuring 4 interchangeable plugs for compatibility in 200+ countries and regions, including the US, UK, EU, and Australia. It delivers a sustained 45W stream of energy and supports seamlessly high-performance charging for 2 devices as the earth's continuous, powerful pulse. A New Era of Epicka Travel Exploration Epicka introduces now a striking new design, shifting our brand-visual effect from its signature blue to a vibrant green. This fresh hue symbolizes our brand's core value: innovation, easy-to-go, and Eco-friendly, provide a premium travel experience for every journey. Product Details Epicka Pulse 45W Universal Travel Adapter • Global compatibility across 200+ countries and regions • Compact design with a 5-in-1 charging ports • Charges an iPhone 16 up to 55% as little as 30 minutes (2*) • Built-in Power integration chip • 45W sustained fast charging • supports seamlessly high-performance charging for 2 devices • Color: Black / White • Price: $29.99 Epicka continues our mission to create a travel aesthetic that allowing travelers to start every journey stress-free. Whether navigating international business trips, backpacking across continents, or simply commuting, this next-generation adapter ensures you're always powered up. Advanced Pi Chip Technology for Seamless Performance At the heart of the Pulse 45W is the Pi (Power Integration) chip, the same cutting-edge technology trusted in iPhone. It ensures intelligent power management, optimized energy efficiency, and enhanced device safety. With built-in protections against overheating, overcharging, and short circuits, users can enjoy peace of mind while staying connected. About Epicka Since 2017, Epicka has grown to become the #1 travel adapter brand in the U.S. market step by step. Guided by our core values of Exploration & Innovation, we design travel gear that is convenient, practical, and urban to enhance the entire travel experience, to make every journey becomes a stress-free and unforgettable memory of life's exploration. For more details, visit or find us by searching 'Epicka' on Location: Shenzhen, China PR Contact: marketing@ / collab@ （1.） The Epicka brand, known for its highly rated universal travel adapters, until Feb 2025, the market share is approximately 35%, about 20% higher than the second place, also held the #1 bestseller spot in the U.S. market's 'Electrical Adapters' category during both the 2024 Amazon Prime Day and BFCM. （2.） Data based on Feb 2025 internal testing uses the pulse 45W adapter charging iPhone 16. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE EPICKA INC.
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Yahoo
This travel adapter will keep you plugged in anywhere — right now it's only $23
In a previous career, I was a professional photographer, a job that took me all over the world. On my first trip overseas, I quickly realized that a single travel adapter wasn't going to cut it — not with my phone, camera gear, laptop and iPad all needing to stay juiced up. When I walked into a local shop, I was stunned by the price of an adapter. But with no other choice, I sighed and shelled out way too much money for a quick fix. Don't be like me — be prepared. The Epiclka Universal Travel Adapter can charge up to six devices at once and works in over 150 countries, saving you from overpriced last-minute buys. Adapters at the airport can run you more than double the price of this one and they generally only have one socket, maybe one USB port if you're lucky. Unless your globetrotting is limited to Canada, Japan and Mexico, you're going to need a travel adapter, and you'll want a universal one. Trust me. There's nothing worse than getting to your hotel room after a long international flight and going to charge your phone, laptop or camera, only to realize the adapter you brought isn't compatible with the outlets. The Epicka has you covered whether you're in London, Sydney or Buenos Aires. Plus, it's compact, so it won't take up much space in your carry-on. And forget about having to bring a bunch of little charging bricks with you. With four USB-A ports, one USB-C and an AC outlet, this allows you to charge your phone, tablet and headphones all at once. No more hopping among devices or unplugging your laptop just to charge your camera. When it comes to safety, this adapter has you covered. It's got a built-in fuse to prevent power surges, safety shutters to keep prying fingers (and anything else) out of the sockets and a plug lock mechanism to keep it secure while in use. One caveat: It's not a voltage converter, so don't even think about using it with a hair dryer or curling iron. Nearly 13,000 happy travelers have given this adapter a perfect, five-star rating. I don't like buying electronics that are the color black because I can't find them in my bag with my old eyes, so the color [here] was appealing and the size was great," said one five-star reviewer. "It packed in my luggage really well. I was in Europe for over a month and I used this all through France and Ireland. I have no complaints over the functionality; it plugged in all of my devices and charged them every night and performed super well. The only sad part for me is that it's packed away waiting for my next trip and I don't get to use it until I leave again." Another happy customer liked that they didn't have to carry around a bunch of adapters. "One of the standout features of this adapter is its universal compatibility. No matter where I was, I could effortlessly plug in my devices." A final raving reviewer really put it to the test. "I used all 4 USB ports , 1 C port and also plugged in another two devices — all charged simultaneously overnight without any issues. The unit got a little warm but not anything dangerous. With this charger and worldwide plug adapter, I no longer have to carry power bank-sized adapters to plug in multiple USB-A cords." One four-star reviewer had rough sailing with his Epicka "I bought this for going on cruises. It won't fit into the non-U.S. socket because the socket is too deep into the wall. The tines aren't long enough for what the ships have. I can still use it if I travel abroad, I guess, but it's useless for cruise ships." Another customer wished it was a voltage converter as well. "I love its compact nature plugs were built into [the] unit eliminating [the] possibility of losing them. All USB outlets worked was very convenient. Only wished it was capable of handling a hair dryer." The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
