Type C vs Type E Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type C vs Type E plugs are compatible in one direction only: an adapter is needed the other way. Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A 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 E socket, and vice versa. You might also want is a type A plug compatible with a type F socket.

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Adapter Needed Type E needs an adapter for a Type C socket Compatible Adapters
Type C power plug and wall socket
Type C
 Type E power plug and wall socket
Type E
Standard CEE 7/16 (Europlug) CEE 7/5
Pin Configuration Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin
Grounding Ungrounded Grounded
Pin Count 2 2
Amperage 2.5A 16A
Voltage Range 220-240V 220-240V

Key Differences Between Type C and Type E

Here's how Type C and Type E compare, point by point. You might also want how does the amperage rating of a type J plug compare to a type O plug.

  • Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type E 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 E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin.
  • Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type C and Type E Compatibility

Type C in Type E Sockets: Type C Europlugs fit into Type E sockets but without grounding protection. Next, check how does the amperage rating of a type F plug compare to a type L plug.

Type E in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E travel adapter.

Type C vs Type E plug comparison: Type C and Type E wall sockets and plugs side by side, with the verdict and which way each plug fits, a specification table, key differences and how to tell them apart. Verdict: Adapter Needed.
Type C vs Type E Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

Does a Type C plug fit into a Type E socket?

Type C Europlugs fit into Type E sockets but without grounding protection. Next, check how does the amperage rating of a type E plug compare to a type F plug.

Are Type C and Type E plugs the same?

No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type E follows CEE 7/5 — they differ in grounding.

Which countries use Type C and Type E plugs?

Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia. Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. 44 countries use both, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic.

How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type E plug?

A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.