Power plug adapters let you connect a device with one plug type to a socket of another type. They suit travellers, people using imported equipment and visitors to South Africa. The range includes travel and plug adapters from SKROSS, HAMA, Micro Connect and Gembird, plus a few unbranded models.
How to choose a power plug adapter
Destination and plug type. Plug shapes differ by country: most of continental Europe uses two round pins (types C and F), the UK and Ireland use type G, and the USA uses flat pins (type A or B). A world adapter covers several regions in one body. An adapter for a single region is simpler and is often enough for one trip. Check the socket at your destination, and the plug on your own device.
Adapter or voltage converter. A plug adapter only changes the shape of the connection. It does not change the voltage. South Africa runs on 230 V, and most laptop, phone and camera chargers are rated for 100 to 240 V on the label, so they work abroad with an adapter alone. Single-voltage items such as hairdryers and some kitchen appliances need a separate voltage converter.
Earthing and current rating. Many laptop chargers have a three-pin plug with an earth pin, so look for an adapter that passes the earth connection through. Check the maximum current in amps on the adapter and make sure it is higher than what your device draws. Heating appliances need a much higher rating than a phone charger.
Built-in USB ports. Some travel adapters add USB-A or USB-C sockets, so you can charge a phone or tablet without carrying a separate charger. If you want to charge a laptop over USB-C, look for the output wattage in the specification, not just the port type.
Power plug adapter brands we carry
- SKROSS: a Swiss brand best known for travel adapters, including world adapters that cover several plug standards in one unit. It is the largest brand in this category in our range.
- HAMA: a German maker of accessories for computers and consumer electronics, with a long-standing line of cables, chargers and adapters.
Also in our range: Micro Connect, Gembird, ZEBRA and some unbranded adapters.
Frequently asked questions about power plug adapters
Do I need a plug adapter or a voltage converter?
In most cases a plug adapter is enough. Check the label on your charger: if it says 100-240 V, it accepts the voltage in nearly every country. A voltage converter is only needed for devices rated for a single voltage, such as some hairdryers and shavers.
What plug adapter do I need to travel from South Africa to Europe?
You need an adapter with two round pins, which fits the types C and F sockets used in most of continental Europe. The UK and Ireland use a different three-pin type G socket, so a Europe adapter will not fit there. A world adapter avoids this problem if your trip covers several countries.
Can I charge a laptop through a plug adapter?
Yes, provided the adapter's current rating is higher than the charger's draw. If the laptop charger has an earth pin, choose an adapter that passes the earth connection through. The charger itself should be rated for 100-240 V if you are travelling abroad.
Can I run a kettle or hairdryer through a travel adapter?
Only if the adapter's rating is higher than the appliance's power draw, and only if the appliance suits the local voltage. Many travel adapters are designed for chargers and electronics rather than heating appliances. Check the rating printed on both the adapter and the appliance before plugging in.
