What's the Difference?

VoltageSuperstore offers three different series of great converters: (1) The PowerSpark Model 2 (Step Up Step Down - good), (2) PowerSpark Diamond Series (Step Up Step Down - better), and the (3) PowerSpark Diamond Elite (Step Up Step Down - best).

So what’s the real difference between the PowerSparks, and which ones are right for certain devices? Each model serves a different purpose and suits different travelers, and we want to tell you all about it:

1. The PowerSpark Model 2 (Step Up Step Down - good) for Short-Term Travel:

These devices are great for short-term travel. Going somewhere for a month? Six months? You probably won’t need to commit to anything more heavy duty than these PowerSpark Model 2 basic models. These standard ones aren’t designed for long-term usage, so make sure you get a Diamond Series or Diamond Elite PowerSpark converter if you’re leaving for more than a short-lived stint. They also come with a 90-day warranty, as opposed to the five-year warranty of our more heavy-duty converters.

2. PowerSpark Diamond Series (Step Up Step Down - better) for Long-Term Travel:

These are steps up from the Type 2 PowerSpark series as these are built to really last much longer than short-term trips. If you’re changing countries for longer than just a few months, you will want to use one of these models that will ensure you’re covered for the long haul.

3. PowerSpark Diamond Elite (Step Up Step Down - best) for Travel to Countries with Unstable Voltage:

This is a serious series of converters. The main difference between these and the Type 2 and Diamond Series is that these Diamond Elite voltage converters come with built-in voltage regulators that stabilize the conversion of foreign electricity in countries with unstable voltage. If the voltage in your destination is questionable, then there is no question that you need to bring along a Diamond Elite with a built-in regulator. Better safe than sorry!

Watt Next?

So you’ve narrowed down your need to a short-term, long-term, or destination-dependent converter. Now, which level of wattage is needed? Finding out the necessary wattage is the next important step! What you level of wattage you'll need in a converter all depends on what device(s) you plan to convert and the wattage level of that device(s).

Check the power label on your device (hint: it might be molded onto the power supply) for the wattage number. If it’s not there, you may have to figure it out for yourself using the easy equation: amps (A) x volts (V) = watts (W).

Once you have the wattage for that device, multiply that times three, and then get a device that matches up with or is greater than that number. Never buy a converter that is the same wattage as your device. Play it safe with a device that is three times the wattage of your device. For instance, if your device is 150 watts, you will need a 450 watt converter. Better safe than sorry, right?

Must-Read Conversion Tips

This is where we reiterate some important points we may  have already made in this guide. They’re that important:

• 1. Many American clothes driers and air conditioners use 220V. Our converters are designed to convert voltage for  non-American 220V devices. Do not purchase a PowerSpark converter if you need to convert an American 220V drier. 
   
• 2. Some dual voltage devices have settings on them so be sure it’s switched to the correct voltage before operating it. Many digital dual voltage devices adjust automatically. 

• 3. Be sure to buy a converter with a wattage rating that is two to three times higher than the device you plan to operate in order to safely convert.  The higher the wattage, the safer you’ll be.

• 4. Not sure if your device is electric or electronic? When all else fails, get a transformer since it can work with electric and electronic devices. Converters ONLY work with electric appliances.

• 5. Some mid-range or luxury hotels in 220V countries may already have 110V plug adapter outlets built in so as to assist their American travelers. Check with your hotel to see if this is available to you should you travel from a 110V to a 220V country.

   

***  IMPORTANT - WHEN SELECTING A CONVERTER WE SUGGEST THAT YOU BUY ONE WITH 3 TIMES THE WATTAGE OF THE PRODUCT YOU ARE CONVERTING ***