Type C vs Type G Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A 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 G socket, and vice versa. Also see type C vs type L plug.
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Type C
|
Type G
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | BS 1363 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 13A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type G
Here's how Type C and Type G compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type G 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 G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type C and Type G Compatibility
Type C in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter. Also see type C vs type K plug.
Type G in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) 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 G travel adapter. Next, check type A vs type D plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type G socket?
Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type C and Type G plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type G follows BS 1363 — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type G plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. 15 countries use both, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Guernsey. For a related pairing, see can i use a type D adapter for type M.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type G plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.