Uruguay Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Uruguay, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type C (CEE 7/16 (Europlug), two round pins, ungrounded), Type F (CEE 7/4 (Schuko), two round pins with grounding clips on sides, grounded) and Type L (CEI 23-50, three round pins in a row, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 220V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Uruguay.
Check Adapter Compatibility
Do you need an adapter for your trip?
Uruguay uses:
Do You Need a Travel Adaptor for Uruguay?
If your devices were purchased outside South America, you will most likely need a travel adaptor to use them in Uruguay. The Uruguay power plug landscape is a little unusual, as the country officially uses three different plug types—Type C, Type F, and Type L—so the shape of adapter you need depends on which electrical outlet you encounter. Hotels, apartments, and public spaces may feature any of these socket types, so a universal adapter covering all three is the safest bet for travelers.
Voltage and Frequency in Uruguay
Uruguay runs on a 220V supply at 50Hz, in line with most of South America, Europe, and much of the rest of the world. This is significantly higher than the 110-120V systems used in North America and parts of Japan, which means voltage compatibility matters just as much as plug shape when deciding what to pack.
Dual-Voltage Devices and Uruguay
Most modern electronics—including phone chargers, laptop power supplies, and camera battery chargers—are dual-voltage and designed to accept anywhere from 100V to 240V automatically. For these devices, you only need a simple plug adapter to match the Uruguayan socket shape, not a voltage converter. However, single-voltage appliances built specifically for 110-120V markets, such as some hair dryers or straighteners, will require a separate voltage converter to operate safely in Uruguay.
Uruguay Travel Adapter Guide
Uruguay's electrical system accommodates three plug standards, giving travelers a bit more variety to plan for than in many other countries. Understanding each type helps you choose the right adapter before you arrive.
- Type C (Europlug): A compact two-pin ungrounded plug rated for up to 2.5A, ideal for low-power electronics like phones and tablets but unsuitable for high-wattage appliances.
- Type F (Schuko): A grounded plug with two round 4.8mm pins and side grounding clips, rated at 16A, commonly used for higher-power appliances such as washing machines and kitchen equipment.
- Type L (CEI 23-50): A distinctive Italian-style 3-pin plug with pins arranged in a straight line, available in 10A and 16A versions that are not interchangeable with one another.
Because Type C plugs fit into both Type F and Type L sockets (without providing grounding), Europlug-style chargers are broadly usable throughout Uruguay. Travelers with grounded appliances, however, should confirm they have the correct Type F or Type L adapter, since fitting the wrong pin arrangement into an electrical outlet simply won't work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, unless your home country already uses Type C, Type F, or Type L plugs. Uruguay uses all three plug types, so a travel adaptor that covers these shapes will ensure your devices can be plugged into local electrical outlets.
Some are and some aren't. Type F and Type L sockets used in Uruguay are grounded and rated for higher-power appliances, while Type C sockets are ungrounded and intended only for low-power, double-insulated devices.
In most cases, yes. Phone chargers are typically dual-voltage and can handle Uruguay's 220V, 50Hz supply without issue, so you'll only need a plug adapter rather than a voltage converter.
Uruguay uses three plug types: Type C (Europlug), Type F (Schuko), and Type L, the Italian-style 3-pin plug. Which one you need depends on the specific outlet you encounter, so a multi-type or universal adapter is recommended.
