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Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in South Africa

South Africa uses Type M/N sockets at 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz. Dual-voltage (100–240V) devices need only a plug adapter; single-voltage US devices need a converter.

Voltage
230⁠V
Frequency
50⁠Hz
Plug type
Type M/N
US plug
Adapter needed
Reviewed
2026-06-17

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South Africa runs 230V — nearly double the US 120V. Dual-voltage gear needs only an adapter; single-voltage US devices need a converter.

Fast checks for South Africa

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersVoltage-safe on 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.Pack a Type M/N plug adapter.
120V-only appliances230V is not compatible with a 120V-only device.Use a converter only for low-watt devices; replace high-watt heat tools.
Plug shapeSockets are Type M/N in the country data.Adapter choice is about pin shape only; it never changes voltage.

South Africa at a glance

Voltage230⁠V
Frequency50⁠Hz
Plug typesType M/N
Voltage zoneHIGH
US plug fits?No — needs adapter

Plug types used in South Africa

Type M Reference shape and compatible sockets Type N Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type M · grounded Type N · grounded

South Africa runs 230V at 50Hz. The traditional plug is the large 3-round-pin Type M; newer installations use Type N (IEC 60906-1, the same standard as Brazil). Pack an adapter that covers M (and ideally N) — the sockets are unlike anything in Europe, the US or the UK.

Your devices in South Africa

Hair Dryer No MacBook Pro Charger (USB-C Power Adapter) Adapter Only iPhone Charger Adapter Only CPAP Machine Adapter Only Curling Iron Converter Needed Laptop Charger Adapter Only Electric Shaver Adapter Only Nintendo Switch Charger Adapter Only
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Get a travel adapter for South Africa(opens in new tab)

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South Africa outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in South Africa without a converter?

Yes. Phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V) — you only need a plug adapter (Type M/N).

Is 230V dangerous for US devices?

Only for single-voltage (120V-only) devices like hair dryers — those need a voltage converter. Dual-voltage gear is fine on an adapter.

What plug type does South Africa use?

South Africa uses Type M/N sockets at 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.

Related

Adapter vs converter · What "100–240V" means
Nearby: Morocco · Egypt
Travelling to South Africa? From United States

Guidance only — not professional electrical advice. Always confirm against your device's label before plugging in. Local wiring (especially in hotels and older buildings) can vary.