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Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in South Africa

South Africa: Type M/Type N · 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz. Compare the local outlet with your device’s INPUT label, plug and grounding requirements.

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

Choose your next step

Check one device Compare your actual INPUT label with this destination. Build a trip checklist Check several devices and share the packing verdict. Size a converter Estimate headroom, then check the permitted load.
South Africa lists 230V. Confirm the full local supply range against your actual INPUT label, frequency, plug and grounding. Never connect a mismatched single-voltage appliance directly.

Fast checks for South Africa

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersCompare the actual INPUT range and frequency with 230⁠V / 50⁠Hz.Confirm manufacturer instructions, the exact plug and required grounding.
120V-only appliances230V is not compatible with a 120V-only device.Check manufacturer permission and converter load type; use a local-voltage model for high-power 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 Check Label 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)

Safety check: a plug adapter only changes plug shape. It does not convert voltage, so confirm your device label before buying.

Shopping links never change the safety verdict.

See the best travel adapters for South Africa →

South Africa outlet FAQ

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

A voltage converter is unnecessary only if your charger’s actual INPUT range covers the local supply and frequency, and its manufacturer permits this use. Confirm the exact outlet, plug fit and any required grounding. A typical charger profile does not verify your model.

Is 230⁠V dangerous for US devices?

Do not connect a mismatched single-voltage appliance directly. For high-power heating appliances use a local-voltage model, not a travel converter workaround. Confirm the actual input label, frequency and grounding even for a 100-240V charger.

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.