Type C vs Type H Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type H is a 3-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 H socket, and vice versa. Next, check type F vs type O plug.
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Type C
|
Type H
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | SI 32 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type H
Here's how Type C and Type H compare, point by point. Next, check type H vs type O plug.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type H 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 H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type C and Type H Compatibility
Type C in Type H Sockets: Type C Europlugs fit into newer Type H sockets for ungrounded devices.
Type H in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H travel adapter.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type H socket?
Type C Europlugs fit into newer Type H sockets for ungrounded devices.
Are Type C and Type H plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in grounding, pin count. You might also want difference between type C and type N sockets.
Which countries use Type C and Type H plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine. 3 countries use both, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type H plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type H plug has three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.