Power Plugs & Voltage in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, the standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz, and plug types A, B are used.
Your plugs (Type A, Type B) fit Costa Rica's sockets directly.
Same as home. Any device that works there works in Costa Rica.
Check your charger Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (look for “INPUT: 100–240V” on the label). Those only ever need a plug adapter, never a voltage converter. High-wattage items with heating elements (hair dryers, straighteners, kettles) are the usual exception.Costa Rica mains: 120V, 60 Hz.
Note Type A/B at 120V 60 Hz, identical to the US.
Plug types in Costa Rica
2 flat parallel pins (ungrounded, North America / Japan)
2 flat pins + a round grounding pin (North America)
Many modern chargers, laptops, phones and cameras are dual-voltage: their label reads INPUT: 100–240V. Those work anywhere in the world with just a plug adapter — no voltage converter needed. Only single-voltage, high-wattage devices (hair dryers, travel kettles, straighteners) are a real concern in Costa Rica’s 120V supply. Always check the label on your own device.
How to check what you need for Costa Rica
- 01 Pick your home country in the checker above.
- 02 See instantly whether your plugs fit Costa Rica’s Types A & B sockets, and whether the 120V supply is a concern.
- 03 Read the label on each device — 100–240V means a plug adapter is all you need.
Frequently asked questions
What plug type is used in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica uses Types A & B plugs. Type A/B at 120V 60 Hz, identical to the US.
What voltage is Costa Rica?
The standard mains voltage in Costa Rica is 120V at 60Hz. Most modern chargers and laptops are dual-voltage (100–240V) and work fine; single-voltage appliances from a country with very different voltage may need a converter.
Do I need an adapter for Costa Rica from the US?
Costa Rica accepts US-style Type A/B plugs, so a plug adapter may not be needed — but check the voltage: the US is 120V and Costa Rica is 120V. Use the checker above for your exact home country.
Do I need an adapter for Costa Rica from the UK?
Yes. UK Type G plugs don't fit Costa Rica's Types A & B sockets, so you'll need a plug adapter. Voltage is 120V — check whether single-voltage devices need a converter.