In Johannesburg, they use Type C, D, M, and N power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
So, you’ll need a travel adapter in Johannesburg. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in Johannesburg:
- Plug type in Johannesburg: C, D, M, and N
- Standard voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Only necessary for specific appliances
- Recommended plug adapter: Vintar Universal Travel Adapter Kit
We’ve collected and double-checked this information using official power regulations from each country, global standards like the IEC, and firsthand experiences from travelers on the ground.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Johannesburg
Ever landed in Johannesburg only to find your plug doesn’t fit? We don’t sell travel adapters, but we’ve tested the best one—safe, fast-charging, and compact. Check it out here:
If you’re already traveling or at your destination without a power adapter, no worries—you’ll probably be able to find one nearby. Still, bringing one from home just saves you the extra step and gives you one less thing to think about.
Johannesburg is often visited together with Mozambique, Botswana, or Namibia. Check what kind of travel adapter you’ll need.
Power Outlets in Johannesburg
In Johannesburg, they use Type C, D, M, and N power plugs and outlets.
Type C
Type C outlets have two round prongs and no grounding pin. Type E and F plugs usually fit too, but grounded plugs will need an adapter.
Type D
Type D outlets have three large round prongs in a triangular layout and typically only accept Type D plugs, although Type C plugs might fit loosely and are not recommended for safe use.
Type M
Type M outlets have three large round prongs like Type D but spaced farther apart, designed for high-power appliances, and only accept Type M plugs—Type C may fit, but it’s unsafe and not recommended.
Type N
Type N outlets have three round prongs arranged in a triangular pattern, designed for modern high-power use, and accept Type N and sometimes Type C plugs, though grounding may be lost with Type C.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
If the voltage in Johannesburg doesn’t align with the 120V used in the U.S., you’ll need a converter to safely use your electronics.
To avoid any electrical issues, always check the power label on your device before traveling. If it states “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, your device is compatible with multiple voltage standards and won’t require a converter. Most laptops, tablets, cameras, and rechargeable devices support this.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Don’t want to guess which converter works? Here are the best-reviewed ones worth checking out.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, these small tools are worth having. They make all the difference when it counts.
More About Johannesburg
Johannesburg, or Jo’burg, is fast-paced, gritty, and packed with history. It was born out of a gold rush and grew into South Africa’s biggest city and economic powerhouse. It’s where you’ll find the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the heart of South Africa’s fight for freedom.
It’s a city of contrasts—slick malls and business districts on one end, historic townships like Soweto on the other. But places like Maboneng and Braamfontein show a new side of Joburg: full of street art, rooftop bars, and young creatives doing cool things.
Yes, safety is something to be mindful of, but with common sense and a local guide, you’ll see a city full of resilience and soul. It’s not polished, but it’s powerful—and if you give it time, Johannesburg will show you its heart.
Johannesburg uses the same plugs and outlets as the rest of South Africa.