Type C vs Type G Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type C vs Type G plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. 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. Compare this with type D vs type M socket.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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. Compare this with comparing type L and type O plugs for international travel.

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. Compare this with will a type C plug work in a type L socket without an 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.

Type C vs Type G plug comparison: Type C and Type G 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: Not Compatible. — Type C vs Type G Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

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 China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia. Type G plugs are used in 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. 15 countries use both, including Cambodia, Maldives, Mauritius, Jordan, Jersey.

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. Compare this with which countries use type C plugs versus type J plugs.