Plugs & sockets in South Africa 🇿🇦

South Africa uses Type C, Type D, Type M, Type N sockets at 230V, 50 Hz. Check which adapter you need from your country below.

Your country

🇺🇸

Destination

🇿🇦

🇺🇸 to 🇿🇦 South Africa

You need an adapter

Get an adapter for these sockets

Type CType DType MType N

A universal travel adapter covers all of these.

Voltage: 120V to 230V

Different band. Phones, laptops and most chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and are fine; single-voltage devices need a converter. Check the label.

South Africa uses Type C, Type D, Type M, Type N

230V, 50 Hz (your country is 60 Hz).

Type M is the old standard; new buildings use Type N.

A guide for travellers, not an electrical safety certification. Always check your device label for its voltage range.

The sockets used in South Africa

Type C

Two round pins, the European “Europlug”. Fits most round-pin sockets across Europe, South America and Asia.

Type D

Three large round pins in a triangle. Mainly India, Nepal and parts of Africa.

Type M

Three large round pins. South Africa, India and neighbours.

Type N

Two round pins plus an earth pin. Brazil and South Africa.

Voltage

230V

Frequency

50 Hz

Type M is the old standard; new buildings use Type N.

Who needs an adapter for South Africa?

🇺🇸 From United States

Adapter needed (Type C / D / M / N)

Voltage differs (120V to 230V); dual-voltage devices are fine.

🇬🇧 From United Kingdom

Adapter needed (Type C / D / M / N)

Voltage compatible.

🇩🇪 From Germany

No adapter needed

Voltage compatible.

🇦🇺 From Australia

Adapter needed (Type C / D / M / N)

Voltage compatible.

South Africa plug FAQ

What plug do they use in South Africa?

South Africa uses Type C, Type D, Type M, Type N power sockets, running on 230V at 50 Hz.

Do I need a travel adapter for South Africa?

It depends where you are from. United States: yes, a Type C/D/M/N adapter. United Kingdom: yes, a Type C/D/M/N adapter. Germany: no adapter needed. Australia: yes, a Type C/D/M/N adapter.

Do I need a voltage converter in South Africa?

South Africa runs on 230V. Phones, laptops and most chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and only need a plug adapter. Single-voltage devices may need a converter, so check the label.

Last reviewed 2026-06-03. A traveller guide, not an electrical safety certification; always check your device label. Sources: IEC World Plugs, worldstandards.eu plug & socket guide.