Type C vs Type M Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type M is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 15A 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 M socket, and vice versa. Compare this with difference between type D and type G sockets.
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Type C
|
Type M
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | BS 546 (15A) |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 15A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type M
Here's how Type C and Type M compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type M 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 M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type M is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type C and Type M Compatibility
Type C in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type M socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Type M in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type M plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) 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 M travel adapter. You might also want type M vs type N plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type M socket?
Generally no. A Type C plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart)) does not fit a Type M socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter. Next, check type I vs type L plug.
Are Type C and Type M plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type M plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Eswatini, India, Lakshadweep, Lesotho. 6 countries use both, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India, Lakshadweep, Mozambique, Nepal.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type M plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type M plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.