Type C vs Type J Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type J 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 J socket, and vice versa. Also see is type D compatible with type M.
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Type C
|
Type J
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | SEV 1011 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 10A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type J
Here's how Type C and Type J compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type J 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 J: Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type J is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type C and Type J Compatibility
Type C in Type J Sockets: Type C Europlugs fit into Type J sockets but without grounding connection.
Type J in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type J plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) 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 J travel adapter. Also see type A vs type G plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type J socket?
Type C Europlugs fit into Type J sockets but without grounding connection. Compare this with type K vs type L plug.
Are Type C and Type J plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type J follows SEV 1011 — they differ in grounding, pin count. You might also want type C vs type L plug.
Which countries use Type C and Type J plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type J plugs are used in 4 countries, including Jordan, Liechtenstein, Maldives, Switzerland. 4 countries use both, including Jordan, Liechtenstein, Maldives, Switzerland.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type J plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type J plug has two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.