Frequency Converter
Convert 50Hz ↔ 60Hz Safely

Electrical frequency is different around the world

Many countries use 220–240V at 50Hz, while the United States and parts of Asia use 100–120V at 60Hz

If your appliance, machine, instrument, or equipment requires a different frequency than the local grid provides, you may need a voltage & frequency converter

PowerXchanger manufactures professional-grade converters capable of transforming both voltage and frequency, delivering pure sine wave 50Hz or 60Hz output depending on your needs

Shop Step-Down Shop Step-Up

What's the Difference Between Step-Down and Step-Up?

  • Change International 50Hz Frequency to the USA 60Hz Frequency You Need

    For using your US appliances/devices abroad in 50Hz regions like Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and more

    Shop Step-Down

  • Changes USA Frequency 60Hz to International 50Hz

    For importing foreign/EU appliances to the USA, or to other 60Hz regions like the Middle-East and in parts of Asia and South America. Japan and Brazil have the unique distinction of having some areas with 50Hz and some area with 60Hz

    Shop Step-Up

Find the Right Converter

Tell us where your device or equipment is from and where you'll be using it — we'll match you with the correct converter instantly.

How to Choose

  • Check Your Appliance Label Voltage & Frequency Needs

  • Compare it to Destination Country's Voltage & Frequency

  • Match Step-Down or Step-Up

  • Size the Converter Capacity You Need
Model Series Direction Output Frequency Output Voltage Capacity (Watts) Capacity (Amps)
EX Series Step-Down 60Hz 100–120V (selectable) 900 – 2340 W 8.4 – 21.8 A
UX Series Step-Up 50Hz 200–240V (selectable) 1000 – 2700 W 4.2 – 12.5 A
Deluxe Series Step-Down 60Hz 120V 600 – 1800 W 5 – 15 A
Slimline Series Step-Down 60Hz 120V 600 W 5 A
iTransformer Portable Step-Down 60Hz 100 – 120V (selectable) 2340 W 21.6 A
iTransformer Portable Step-Up 50Hz 200V–240V (selectable) 2700 W 12.5 A

When Does the Frequency Matter?

Many appliances are designed for a specific frequency.

Units that rely on timing, torque, or motor RPM can misbehave or fail when run at the wrong frequency.

Examples of sensitive equipment:

  • Refrigerators and freezers
  • Washing machines
  • Pumps and compressors
  • Industrial motors and tools
  • Audio and studio gear
  • Treadmills and fitness machines

Incorrect frequency can cause:

  • Overheating
  • Incorrect motor speed
  • Torque loss
  • Control-board failure
Learn More

PowerXchanger Frequency Converter Model Families

See all products

  • UX Series

    Step-Up
    (120V → 220–240V, 50/60Hz Selectable)

    The UX Series is designed for customers in the United States and other 60Hz regions who need to run 220–240V / 50Hz appliances safely. This is the true opposite of the EX Series: instead of stepping down, the UX Series steps up voltage while also converting frequency.

    With selectable output of 200V / 220V / 230V / 240V and 50Hz or 60Hz, the UX Series supports imported European, Asian, Australian, African, and Middle Eastern appliances that require both the correct voltage and correct frequency to operate properly.

  • EX Series

    Step-Down
    (220–240V → 120V, 50/60Hz Selectable)

    The EX Series is PowerXchanger’s workhorse solution for customers who need to safely run 120V / 60Hz American appliances in 220–240V / 50Hz regions. Each unit provides pure sine wave output with selectable 50Hz or 60Hz frequency, and selectable 100V / 110V / 115V / 120V voltage to match a wide range of US-spec devices.

    With models rated between 900W–2340W continuous operation, the EX Series supports everything from household appliances to sensitive electronics, audio gear, scientific instruments, and motorized equipment that requires the correct frequency to operate safely.

    Key Advantages:

    • True voltage + frequency conversion (50Hz ↔ 60Hz)
    • Fully selectable output voltage (100–120V)
    • Pure sine wave output for clean, stable power
    • Published peak-current (<250ms) data for sizing motorized loads and high in-rush capabilities
    • Ideal for Americans relocating overseas to run multiple appliances

  • Deluxe Series

    Step-Down
    Sealed Solid-State Electronics with Fixed 60Hz Output (220–240V 50Hz → 120V/60Hz)

    The Deluxe Series is a simplified, ultra-reliable solution for customers who need fixed 60Hz output without selectable frequency options. These units are optimized for high-demand motor and compressor loads such as:

    • Refrigerators
    • Freezers
    • Pumps
    • Fans
    • Fractional horsepower motors
    • Multi-appliance setups

    Capacities include 600W / 1200W / 1800W continuous, making the X Series a perfect mid-range converter for homes, apartments, and long-term international moves where American appliances must run on stable 120V / 60Hz power.

    Key Advantages:

    • The most advanced 120V/60Hz clean, regenerated, and shielded pure sine-wave power existing in the frequency conversion market
    • EMI/RFI Filters at both Input and Output
    • Robust, fully-enclosed solid-state frequency converter design with no internal fans
    • Ideal for “set and forget” long-term installations
    • Extensive Safety Markings: The Deluxe and Slimline models have UL, UC, CB, CE, Demko, TUV, and FCC certification
    • IEC certifications 60335-1 and IEC60950-1

  • Slimline Series

    Step-Down
    Compact, Lightweight, and Powerful Fixed 60Hz Output Converters
    220V/50Hz → 120V/60Hz

    The Slimline Series are compact, efficient fixed 60Hz step-down converters designed for smaller 120V appliances used in 220–240V regions. With a 600W continuous rating, they’re great for installing behind or near gas appliances like your stove and gas clothes dryer.

    Since it's compact, portable, and easy to place in tight spaces, the XS-05GA units are popular for powering devices like turntables when space is a premium where you are relocating to.

    Key Advantages:

    • Compact and lightweight
    • Extensive Safety Markings: The Slimline and Deluxe models have UL, UC, CB, CE, Demko, TUV, and FCC certification
    • Absolutely no fans. The XS-05GA is completely enclosed and only cools via natural ventilation
    • IEC certifications 60335-1 and IEC60950-1
    • Fixed 60Hz 120V output
    • Supports small appliances and electronics
    • Quiet, efficient operation via solid-state technology

  • iTransformer

    Step-Up & Step-Down Models
    Field-Ready Voltage & Frequency Conversion Anywhere on the Planet

    The iTransformer Series is PowerXchanger’s portable and lightweight frequency converter lineup, delivering the power of an EX-21 or UX-3K anywhere.

    Key Advantages:

    • Portable and Durable - Each unit includes the briefcase and all the power cords you'll need
    • iTransformers have passed MIL SPEC vibration tests for safety in transport
    • These units include many new and innovative technologies such as Input neutral auto detect and correct technology for when you plug into an outlet with reversed polarity
Add appliances to it like a fridge and stove

Just one PowerXchanger can power many different devices

Expat Guide:
The “Sell Everything Before You Move” Advice, Tested

It's one of those ideas that sounds practical until you actually run the numbers.

For many of the appliances and devices you care about most, this advice doesn't save you money — it costs you money, wastes your time, and forces you to settle for equipment that doesn't perform the way you're used to.

This post breaks down why, device by device, myth by myth.

Top 5 Expat Myths About Moving Appliances Debunked

Common Frequency Converter Questions

Can I use a PowerXchanger to convert 50Hz European equipment to operate in U.S. 60Hz factories?

Yes, that’s exactly what PowerXchanger is designed to do. It converts both the voltage and the frequency so your 50 Hz European equipment can run reliably on U.S. 60 Hz power at industrial and factory sites.

This ensures motors, tools, and sensitive electronics operate at their intended speed and performance. Always confirm the voltage and power rating of your equipment to choose the right PowerXchanger model.

Will my Dyson Airwrap or Supersonic work in Europe/UK with a voltage converter?

The Short Answer: No. It will likely pulse on and off, or simply refuse to start.

The Why: Dyson uses sophisticated digital motors that monitor the incoming power quality thousands of times a second. When you use a standard voltage transformer, the voltage is correct (110V), but the frequency is still wrong (50Hz). The Dyson’s safety sensors detect this mismatch as a "fault" and shut the unit down to prevent damage. To run a US Dyson abroad, you need a PowerXchanger to convert both voltage and frequency.


The PowerXchanger EX-21 is the recommended model for high-wattage beauty tools. While smaller converters might theoretically handle the wattage, the EX-21 handles the high in-rush current (the surge of power when you first turn the dryer on) without tripping so your expensive Dyson runs at full power and full heat, exactly as it does at home.

My KitchenAid mixer turns on, but it sounds strained and overheats. Why?

The Short Answer: The electronic speed control board is confused, and the motor is running inefficiently.

The Why: Older mixers were simple, but modern KitchenAids use a control board to regulate speed. These boards often use the AC frequency as a timing reference. On 50Hz power, the timing is off, causing the motor to draw more current than it should. The result is a mixer that runs hot, lacks torque at low speeds, and risks burning out the motor controller.

What is the difference between a voltage transformer and a frequency converter?

Voltage transformers adjust the voltage level (e.g., from 230 V down to 110 V), protecting your devices from overvoltage damage.

Frequency converters ensure that the electrical frequency (50 Hz vs. 60 Hz) matches what your device was built for.

Why does the frequency matter?

Because so many devices, from washing machines and CPAP
Machines to audio equipment, kitchen appliances, and tools all rely on precise
timing or motor speed governed by the mains frequency. Run a 60 Hz-designed
motor or compressor at 50 Hz, and it will spin slower, draw more current,
overheat, or fail altogether. Read more about Why Frequency Matters topic.

Can I run a 50Hz motor on 60Hz supply?

Running a 50 Hz motor on a 60 Hz supply will make it run about 20% faster. This can cause extra heat, vibration, and reduced torque depending on the design. Some motors are built for both 50/60 Hz and will work safely, while others may wear out quickly or fail.

To ensure proper performance and protect your equipment, we recommend using a PowerXchanger frequency converter.

How do I know if I need I frequency converter or a voltage transformer?

A voltage transformer only changes the voltage, while a frequency converter changes both voltage and frequency.

If your equipment label shows it supports both 50/60 Hz, you usually only need a transformer to match the voltage. If it specifies a single frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz only), then you will need a frequency converter to run it properly.

Always check the rating plate on your device to determine which solution is required.

More information available on our full FAQ

All Frequency Converter Models

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Shop With Confidence

Browse the full range above to choose the converter that matches your application’s power needs.

If you’re unsure which model fits best, contact our support team for tailored recommendations and one-on-one guidance

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Real Examples of Global Frequency Issues PowerXchanger has Already Solved for Customers

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