Description
The Mercury 100W step-down converter transforms UK 230-240V mains to US 110-120V, allowing low-to-medium powered American devices to run from a standard UK wall socket. The converter handles continuous loads up to 100W, covering laptop chargers, electric shavers, portable speakers, small LED screens and similar electronics designed for the US power grid.
Built for residential and travel use, the converter includes a 1.8m mains cable terminated in a UK BS1363 3-pin plug, with a single US-style 2-pin output socket on the top face. The compact 115 x 84 x 69mm casing weighs 911g, making it portable enough to pack in luggage but heavy enough to sit stably on a desk or bedside table without tipping when a device is plugged in. Side vents allow airflow for passive cooling under continuous load.
The converter is rated for resistive and capacitive loads only — devices that use transformers or motors, such as laptop power bricks, phone chargers and audio equipment. It is not suitable for heating appliances (hair dryers, travel kettles, straighteners, irons), which draw high inrush currents and resistive heating loads that can exceed the 100W rating even when the stated wattage appears lower. The unit conforms to BS1363 safety standards for UK domestic use.
Specification
| Power supply |
230Vac, 50Hz |
| Power max. |
100W |
| Cable |
1.8m |
| Output voltage |
110Vac |
| Dimensions |
115 x 84 x 69mm |
| Weight |
911g |
Frequently Asked
What devices can I use with this converter?
The converter suits devices with transformer-based or capacitive loads up to 100W: laptop chargers, phone chargers, electric shavers, portable speakers, small LED TVs and similar electronics rated for 110-120V. Check the device's power rating — if it states 100W or less, the converter can handle it. Devices with motors or heating elements are not suitable.
Can I use this with a hair dryer or travel kettle?
No. Hair dryers, kettles, straighteners and irons draw high resistive heating loads and inrush currents that exceed the 100W rating, even if the appliance itself states a lower wattage. Using heating appliances with this converter will overload the transformer and may cause damage or create a fire risk.
Does it work both ways — can I convert 110V to 230V?
No. This is a step-down converter only, designed to convert UK 230-240V mains to US 110-120V output. It does not function as a step-up converter and cannot be used to power UK 230V devices from a US 110V supply.
How do I know if my device is under 100W?
Check the device's power brick or rating plate. Most laptop chargers state their output in watts (e.g. 65W, 90W). If the device only lists voltage and current, multiply them: a charger rated at 19V 3.42A draws approximately 65W, which is within the converter's capacity.