Abstract This paper presents the scientometric analysis of superconductivity research output in South America from 1980 to 2019 and compares it with Global output as reported in Web of Science. The study shows that superconductivity research in South America had a steep growth between 1980 and 2000, particularly an abrupt hike in 2005 that is noticeable followed by a more or less steady pattern thereafter up to 2019. South America superconductivity papers are analysed bibliometrically to indicate the authorship, collaboration pattern, to identify the major institutions and most relevant journals; apart from identifying the research field or application area of research in superconductivity.