Type A vs Type M Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type A is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type M is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 15A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in grounding, voltage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type A plug fits a Type M socket, and vice versa. Also see type C to type L plug adapter.
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Type A
|
Type M
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | BS 546 (15A) |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 15A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type M
Here's how Type A and Type M compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type M adds a grounding pin or clips to protect against electrical faults.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type A: Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide). Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type M is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type A and Type M Compatibility
Type A in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type A plug (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) does not fit a Type M socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Type M in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type M plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) does not fit a Type A socket (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) without a travel adapter.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type A or Type M travel adapter. Also see type F vs type N plug.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type M socket?
Generally no. A Type A plug (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) does not fit a Type M socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type M plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type M plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Eswatini, India, Lakshadweep, Lesotho.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type M plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type M plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. For a related pairing, see type H vs type N plug.