Type C vs Type L Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type L is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/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 L socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type D vs type M plug.
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Type C
|
Type L
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | CEI 23-50 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 10A/16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type L
Here's how Type C and Type L compare, point by point. Also see type B vs type O plug.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type L 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 L: Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type L is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type C and Type L Compatibility
Type C in Type L Sockets: Type L outlets accept Type C Europlugs for ungrounded devices.
Type L in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type L plug (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) 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 L travel adapter. Next, check type C vs type J plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type L socket?
Type L outlets accept Type C Europlugs for ungrounded devices.
Are Type C and Type L plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type L follows CEI 23-50 — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type L plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type L plugs are used in 11 countries, including Chile, Cuba, Easter Island, Eritrea, Italy. 11 countries use both, including Chile, Cuba, Easter Island, Eritrea, Italy.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type L plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type L plug has three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. Also see type C vs type G plug.