Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Singapore?

Singapore power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Singapore?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Singapore:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Singapore power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Singapore, therefore please check that your power converter has the right power adapter for Singapore otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Singapore read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Singapore

Will my hair dryer work in Singapore?

That depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volts used in Singapore:

Can I use my American hair dryer in Singapore?

The guides on this page assume that you are an America reader travelling to Singapore and provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with a Singapore power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Singapore

What to look for when choosing a travel hair dryer for Singapore

A hair dryer cool shot button

What to look for when choosing a travel hair dryer for Singapore

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but lightweight dual-voltage dryer that operates with a 230 volt Singapore power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a model with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

  1. A travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage in order to operate in Singapore.
  2. A modern hair dryer could feature a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option is missing in more compact models.
  3. Buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market might be risky - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  4. Try to look for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space for packing other items.
  5. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading leading to starting an electrical fire, you can idenfity these with test and reset switches found on the plug.
  6. Thicker hair could need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  7. The most suitable hair dryers let you to control the speed and temperature with two options; a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to your hair whereas a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker wet hair.
  8. Depending on your accommodation in Singapore you could find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest outlet making it cumbersome to style hair, therefore search for a model with the longest power cord available.
  9. Rather than looking for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper buying a new hair dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.
Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it ideal for styling thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on luggage, only requiring a power adapter for Singapore to work with a Singapore power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best small dual voltage hair dryer for Singapore?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is the best small dual voltage hair dryer for Singapore?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hair dryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is most suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and has features found on larger hair dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use resulting in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Singapore power outlet they should work in Singapore and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m electric power cords and a twin speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to dry without hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is the best dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

  • Using a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can will quickly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Singapore in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Singapore power outlet.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer for Singapore?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Singapore Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Singapore power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used in Singapore?

The frequency of the current from a Singapore power outlet is 50Hz. [16]

What voltage is used in Singapore?

The common residential voltage used in Singapore is 230 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Singapore?

Type C, G and M power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Singapore?

There are three types of power outlets used in Singapore, types G, C and M with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type C - The plug socket, also called a Europlug, is identified by 2 holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins go. Type C power outlets in Singapore are less common.
  • Plug Type G - The most common sockets found in Singapore are Type G power outlets. You can recognise the plug socket by 3 rectangular holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  • Plug Type M - The wall outlet, also called a type M power outlet, looks like 3 holes in a triangular pattern. Also note that Type M electrical sockets in Singapore are less commonplace.

A recommended plug adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Singapore is a Type G power adapter, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a plug adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also have to use a power converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of your hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Singapore then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Singapore power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Singapore power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Singapore.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Singapore or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can you switch the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which selects between 2 voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Singapore.
  2. This dial or switch will typically require either a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Singapore?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure it is set to the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Singapore, then plug in the power adapter into the Singapore power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - but this speed and temperature should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Check the manufacturers guidelines to see if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be used with a Singapore power outlet.

Travelling to Singapore with a hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a plane in Singapore?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a blowdryer allowed on a plane in Singapore?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Singapore will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Singapore?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Singapore as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Singapore power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Singapore). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Singapore. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Singapore might be more than purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [19] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Singapore have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Singapore have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose variety. If staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you can either call ahead to your hotel in Singapore or check on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those worried about hygiene should check for any burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Singapore or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Singapore

Do you need a voltage converter for Singapore to use your hair dryer?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Singapore. A power converter is more suitable for travellers wishing to bring along their existing domestic hair dryer, however it could be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be significantly smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [9] [AD]

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter?

A heavy and expensive power converter transforms a 230 volt Singapore power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Singapore. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Singapore with a two pin Type C travel adapter.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet used in Singapore isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Singapore simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the Singapore power outlet. This unearthed wall supply (sometimes called a Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug) is recognised by the two circular adjacent holes next to each other. Be aware that Type C power outlets might not be as common in Singapore.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Singapore power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Singapore. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type G power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Singapore by using a Type G power adapter.

  1. Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet - but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Singapore; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Singapore you will need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. The power adapter will convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Singapore by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type G plug adapter in the Singapore power outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called a Type G power outlet [5], looks like 3 slots with plastic shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground. The most frequently found outlets in Singapore are Type G electrical sockets.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Singapore power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the hair dryer to use in Singapore. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type M power adapter

A page on how to power a hair dryer in Singapore with a three pin Type M travel adapter.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type M plug adapter [8] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet which is used in Singapore. This power adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Singapore simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type M plug adapter and plugging it into the Singapore power outlet. You can recognise the plug supply by 3 large round holes forming a triangular shape. Please be aware that that Type M power outlets are less common in Singapore.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Singapore power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Singapore. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Visitsingapore - Visit Singapore
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  8. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  9. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  10. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  11. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  12. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  15. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  19. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.