Power converters for Monaco

What does a power converter for Monaco do?

Power converters allow travellers to use a 100, 110 or 120 volt electric device with a 230 volt Monacan power outlet.


What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Monaco?

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your device to fit into a power outlet in Monaco, but an expensive and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Monacan power outlet to work with a non-230 volt device. [3] [AD]

Do I need a power converter for Monaco?

When travelling to Monaco from a different country please double check the device will accept a 230 volt power supply.

  • A step down power converter is needed if you are visiting Monaco from a country that uses 100-120 volts and your device or appliance isn't compatible with 230 volts. See our list of world power outlets guide to find out the voltage your country uses.
  • You shouldn't need a power converter if you already own either a 230 volt single voltage device or one that is dual voltage.
  • Typically, devices designed for a lower voltage (for example 110 volts) and then used with 230 volts run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your device unless a step down power converter is used.
  • You don't need a converter if you are attempting to power a smaller electrical device such as a mobile phone or laptop as these are typically designed for international use and support dual voltage, however always always check the device for dual voltage support prior to your journey.
  • When supplying power to high wattage appliances or generate heat (for example clothes irons or hair dryers) then you will need to use a bulkier higher wattage heavy duty power converter to allow it to be used with a 230 volt Monacan power outlet.
  • It will be more cost effective to purchase a robust lightweight dual voltage travel appliance than trying to bring a much heavier power converter to Monaco simply to use your existing domestic appliance.
  • For more information read our comprehensive guides on how to use clothes irons, curling wands, hairdryers and hair straighteners in Monacan power outlets , along with recommendations on affordable dual voltage alternatives.  [4] [5] [AD]

What converter do I need for Monaco?

You need to use a step down power converter to use any 100-120 volt appliance in a 230 volt Monacan power outlet. [4] [AD]

How to convert 230 volts to 110 volts

  1. Use a step down power converter to allow you to use a 110 or 120 volt appliance with a 230 volt Monacan power outlet.
  2. If the power converter doesn't include the correct shaped plug then it will also be necessary to plug in the power cord from the power converter into a power adapter for Monaco before plugging that into a Monacan power outlet.
  4. Plug your appliance into the converter and turn the power on, your 110-120 volt appliance can now be used with a 230 volt Monacan power outlet. [4] [AD]

What voltage does Monaco use?

Monaco uses 230 volts in their standard power outlets. [2]

What is the difference between a converter and a power transformer?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a converter and a power transformer?


What voltage is my device?

Single voltage hair straighteners

What voltage is my device?

The best way to see if your appliance is dual voltage is to check for numbers printed on the existing power adapter, or on the unit itself, normally on the rear of the unit or near to where the power cord plugs into. This location will depend on the make or model of your appliance and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box.

  • Single voltage devices might say a specific number - such as 240V.
  • Single voltage devices might also have a small voltage range (around 20 volts) with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 220-240V.
  • Dual voltage devices will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 110/240V.


  1. Wikipedia - Monaco Wikipedia page.
  2. iec.ch - International Electrotechnical Commission World Plugs