What Plug Does Ethiopia Use?
View CountryEthiopia uses type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug) as the primary plug, with type F (Schuko) common and type G (BS 1363) used occasionally. The standard supply is 230 V at 50 Hz. Most travellers from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan will need a plug adapter; visitors from continental Europe and India usually do not.
Plug Types
Also Used
Do I Need a Travel Adapter for Ethiopia?
Most travellers will need an adapter unless they already use type C or F plugs. Specifically: travellers from the US and Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and Japan need an adapter. UK and Irish travellers sometimes need an adapter. Travellers from continental Europe and India do not need an adapter. Buy an adapter that fits type C sockets and also accepts F and G where available, or choose a reliable universal travel adapter that covers C, F and G.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Plug adapter | Voltage converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | Sometimes | Not needed |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | Not needed | Not needed |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | Needed | Not needed |
| India | Type D/C | Not needed | Not needed |
| Japan | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
Do I Need a Voltage Converter in Ethiopia?
Most modern phone and laptop chargers support 100-240V and will work in Ethiopia without a converter. Check the label on the device or charger; if it reads 100-240V 50/60Hz no converter is needed. Visitors from the US, Canada and Japan should check their single-voltage devices, as they may need a converter for appliances like hair dryers and straighteners. Travellers from the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and India generally do not need a voltage converter.
Ethiopia Plugs and Sockets Explained
Type C is the primary plug in Ethiopia. It has two round pins, is unearthed and fits many small chargers. Type F, the Schuko, is also common; it has two round pins plus earth contacts on the sides and is earthed. Type G, the British three-pin plug, appears sometimes and has three rectangular pins with an earth. All sockets supply 230 V at 50 Hz, so pin shape and earthing determine which adapter you need.
Tips for Charging Your Devices in Ethiopia
- Carry an adapter that supports type C and F, or a universal adapter covering C, F and G.
- Check chargers for a 100-240V label before assuming no converter is needed.
- Use a dual-voltage hair tool or a voltage converter for single-voltage appliances.
- Bring a multi-USB charger to share a single socket for phones and small devices.
- Pack spare charging cables and a compact power bank for long days out.