Type C vs Type I Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type C vs Type I 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 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. Also see does a type I plug fit into a type J socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters
Type C power plug and wall socket
Type C
 Type I power plug and wall socket
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.

  • 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. Next, check how does the amperage rating of a type A plug compare to a type C plug.

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.

Type C vs Type I plug comparison: Type C and Type I 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 I Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

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 China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including Australia, China, Argentina, New Zealand, Fiji. 5 countries use both, including China, Argentina, Myanmar, East Timor, Tibet Autonomous Region, China. For a related pairing, see do you need a type L to type N plug adapter.

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.