Type C vs Type E Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
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 type J vs type O plug.
Swipe to compare
Type C
|
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.
- 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.
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. Also see type A vs type C plug.
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.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type E socket?
Type C Europlugs fit into Type E sockets but without grounding protection.
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. Also see type C vs type D plug.
Which countries use Type C and Type E plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. 44 countries use both, including Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. Also see can i use a type E adapter for type F.
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.