Type C vs Type F Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type F 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 F socket, and vice versa. Also see type A vs type B plug.
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Type C
|
Type F
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | CEE 7/4 (Schuko) |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 2 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type F
Here's how Type C and Type F compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type F 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 F: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides.
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type F is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type C and Type F Compatibility
Type C in Type F Sockets: Type C Europlugs fit into Type F sockets but without grounding.
Type F in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type F plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) 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 F travel adapter.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type F socket?
Type C Europlugs fit into Type F sockets but without grounding.
Are Type C and Type F plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type F follows CEE 7/4 (Schuko) — they differ in grounding.
Which countries use Type C and Type F plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra. 73 countries use both, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Armenia.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type F plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type F plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.