From Costa Rica to Jamaica
When travelling from Costa Rica to Jamaica: Good news: all your Costa Rica plug types fit in Jamaica. Voltage is different (120V → 110V). Check your charger label; if it doesn’t list 110V you’ll also need a voltage converter. Frequency differs (60Hz → 50Hz). Modern phone and laptop chargers are usually fine, but some clocks, motors, and appliances may behave incorrectly.
Costa Rica
JamaicaYour plugs
Type A
Fits
Type B
Fits
Accepted in Jamaica
Type A
Type B
2 of 2 plug type(s) match
You: A, B • Jamaica: A, B
Voltage: 120V → 110V
Different voltage
You may need a voltage converter.
Frequency: 60Hz → 50Hz
Different frequency
Check device supports both 50/60 Hz.
Plugs fit, but voltage differsAdapters you may need
Voltage differs; check for 100–240V support.
About electricity in Jamaica
Jamaica is 110V at 50Hz. An unusual combination, with Type A and B sockets.
Grid & history
Jamaica’s grid runs on a mix of natural gas, heavy fuel oil, and growing solar/wind (Wigton wind farm, Content solar). The 110V/50Hz combination is a legacy quirk that can affect 60Hz-tuned US gear (motors and clocks).
Availability
Reliable in Kingston and tourist areas; outages can occur during hurricane season.
Sockets & hotels
Standard North American Type A/B sockets.
Energy mix
Practical tips
- US plugs fit Jamaican sockets directly.
- Voltage is 110V like the US, but frequency is 50Hz, so US clocks and some motors will run ~17% slow.
Frequently asked questions
- Will my Costa Rica plug work in Jamaica?
- Yes. Every Costa Rica plug type (Type A, Type B) fits in Jamaica sockets without an adapter.
- What plug type does Jamaica use?
- Jamaica uses Type A, Type B. The supply is 110V at 50Hz.
- Do I need a voltage converter for Jamaica when travelling from Costa Rica?
- Jamaica runs on 110V, while Costa Rica uses 120V. Check your charger label for a 100 to 240V rating; if it does not list 110V you will also need a voltage converter.
- Is the electrical frequency in Jamaica the same as Costa Rica?
- Frequency in Jamaica is 50Hz, while Costa Rica uses 60Hz. Modern phone and laptop chargers handle either, but clocks, motors, and some heating appliances may behave incorrectly.