If you're planning a trip to Brazil, understanding the country's electrical system is essential to avoid any power-related issues for your devices. Knowing what kind of Brazil electrical outlet you'll encounter, the voltage, and if you'll need a Brazil power outlet adaptor will help you stay connected.
Brazil Power Outlet Type: What to Expect
To know if you will need to buy a power adaptor for your trip to Brazil, it's important to check if your devices are compatible with the Brazil power plug type.
Brazil predominantly uses the Type C and Type N power plugs. Type C have two round pins and a thin body, while Type N has two round pins plus a third grounding pin arranged in a triangular shape.
If you have European plus, good news - You can plug your Type C plugs into a Type N outlet. But do not confuse type C with Type E! While both types have two round pins, the wide circular body of the Type E plug will not fit into a Brazilian outlet.
If you are travelling from the United States, you will need to buy a power adaptor for your trip to Brazil.
Although Type N it's now the standard, you may still find older outlets (particularly in older buildings) that fit Type C plugs. For this reason, it's best to use an adaptor that fits a Type C plug, as this fits into both Type C and Type N outlets.
Voltage in Brazil
Another important consideration when traveling to Brazil is the country's voltage system. Unlike many countries that have a uniform voltage, Brazil operates on two different voltages depending on the region:
127 volts in most of the central and southeastern regions, such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, although some newer buildings do supply 220 volts. 220 volt electricity outlets are usually marked with a red tag.
220 volts in the north and northeast parts of the country.
It's important to know the local voltage before plugging in any appliance, as using the wrong voltage can damage it or cause injury. You can check the appliance's rating plate to see if it's dual voltage, which means it can handle both 110–240 V.
Many modern electronics, like laptops and phone chargers, are designed to handle dual voltage (110-240V), but it's always wise to double-check. If it is, you only need a travel adapter. If it's not, you'll need a voltage transformer or converter.
Do You Need a Brazil Power Outlet Adaptor?
If your devices don't have a compatible plug with the Brazil power plug type (Type N), you will definitely need a Brazil power adaptor. You can either buy a Type C or Type N adaptor for Brazil, or, consider buying a universal travel adaptor. One advantage of buying a universal power adaptor is that it can be used for future trips to other countries.
Luckily, adaptors are easy to find and inexpensive to buy, both before your trip and within Brazil itself. In Brazil, many convenience stores, supermarkets, and electronics shops stock universal power adaptors. The universal adaptor below cost R$25 (USD $4).
These adaptors typically cover multiple plug types, including those used in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Australia. This way, you’ll be equipped not just for Brazil but for international travel in general.
Summary
Brazil uses Type N power outlets - which fit both Type N and Type C power plugs. Voltage varies by location, and may be 127 or 220 volts. If your devices aren’t compatible with Brazil’s plug type or voltage, you’ll need to bring a Brazil power outlet adaptor and possibly a voltage converter.
Fortunately, universal adaptors are inexpensive and widely available. Buying one will not only cover your stay in Brazil but also prepare you for future adventures around the world.
Boa viagem! Have a good trip!
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