Type C vs Type I Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type I is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A 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 I socket, and vice versa. Next, check type A vs type C plug differences explained.
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Type C
|
Type I
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | AS/NZS 3112 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 10A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type I
Here's how Type C and Type I compare, point by point. For a related pairing, see type E vs type I plug.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type I 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 I: Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin.
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type I is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type C and Type I Compatibility
Type C in Type I Sockets: Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Type I in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type I plug (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) 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 I travel adapter. Also see type G vs type H plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type I socket?
Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Are Type C and Type I plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type I follows AS/NZS 3112 — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type I plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including American Samoa, Argentina, Australia, China, Christmas Island. 5 countries use both, including Argentina, China, East Timor (Timor-Leste), Myanmar (Burma), Tibet.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type I plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type I plug has two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.