Plug Converter

Not really much of a difference. The 3 round pin plug is the "new" standard and all new construction will have it. The two round pin is still in use and most common all over Brazil. New electronics, small appliances and other electrical devices will have the 3rd pin, which is the GROUND wire.

The whole thing is really a joke since most construction uses the 3 pin sockets and only two wires, they're not using the third ground wire anyway. That said, you should never simply cut off the middle (slightly lower) pin. There is a 3 to 2 pin adapter that is quite cheap and readilly available if your residence has only the two pin sockets.

More important is to remember that Brazil has both 220 and 110 volt services, don't just assume that the outlet is one or the other because they use EXACTLY THE SAME SOCKET. If a socket is not marked as to its voltage, either test it with a volt meter or check with someone in the know exactly what voltage is used, some residences actually have BOTH.

Just another clear sign just how seriously screwed up this country really is. In other countries they have distinctly different plugs for different voltages. Só no Brasil mesmo!!!  rsrsrsrsrs

Cheers,
James   Expat-blog Experts Team