Type C vs Type D Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in grounding, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type C plug fits a Type D socket, and vice versa. Next, check type D vs type O plug.
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Type C
|
Type D
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | BS 546 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 5A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type D
Here's how Type C and Type D compare, point by point. You might also want type F vs type L plug.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type D adds a grounding pin or clips to protect against electrical faults.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type C: Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart). Type D: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type C and Type D Compatibility
Type C in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see can i use a type E adapter for type F.
Type D in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type D plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) does not fit a Type C socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) 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 C or Type D travel adapter.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type D socket?
Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type C and Type D plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type D follows BS 546 — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type D plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. 19 countries use both, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type D plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type D plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. Also see type C vs type E plug.