Some questions about using a power strip internationally

Lv 88 Mog

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Jan 25, 2016
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Ok, so I don't know if I should ask about a product like this here, but I trust this community, so here goes. I have a question about this product: Bestek Travel Power Strip and Converter

I live in Japan, and my friend from the US brought this with him. I don't think a converter is needed because the plug size is compatible and the voltage is similar (JP is 100 and US is 110). I've always used JP products without problem in US and vice versa. My friend probably realized he didn't need it, so he left it here when he went back. But I like the design of it, so I want to use it as a charging station for my devices (US laptop, JP iPhone/iPad, JP 3DS, etc). Can I use it just as a power strip? I think it should be fine as the product info page says it's compatible with 90V-265VAC input and 100~120V/AC 60Hz output. In other words, it can take and give 100v. However, I spoke with a few Bestek reps (both were Chinese with poor English and just sales reps not techs, so they didn't really answer my questions well), but they said I shouldn't use the product because: A. the product is a converter. Since I'm using a 100v device (e.g. JP iPhone), I should just plug into the wall rather than use this because it's primary function is a converter. and B. Because my friend lost the plug adapter for the US/JP plug.

This leads me to the 2nd question. This power strip comes with an EU plug, and 3 attachable plug adapters (one of which is for the US, or JP in my case). Since he lost the adapters, can't I just hit Amazon, or a local electronics shop, and buy a generic EU-->US/JP plug adapter? The sales reps told me I can't, but I don't understand why. What could be unique about the adapters that came with the power strip? I'm not too knowledgeable about it, so perhaps there is something?

I really like the design, and it would be a great charging station.... but should I just listen to the reps and not use it? Any advice is appreciated!
 
Solution


Even if it's just a convertor it should be fine however since bestek is not confident in their own product it raises some alarms. Since it's just a generic eu power cord that slots into a wall socket adapter you should be fine if you get one on amazon.
 
Solution

menaxiao

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Nov 13, 2017
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Well, did you ask the Bestek customer service? Maybe reps you asked are not professional. Yes, if your power converter is designed to convert 220V to 110V, then it means you can use the power converter to charge any 110V products. As for the adapter, of course, you can buy an US /JP power adapter and use it to replace the EU plug. I got this power converter from Amazon Bestek and it just work fine. Though the reps gave you a confused answer, but the product itself is good.