Type C vs Type M Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type C vs Type M 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 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. For a related pairing, see comparing type B and type D plugs for international travel.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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.

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

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. Compare this with is it safe to use a type E device on a type N socket.

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 China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique. 6 countries use both, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Mozambique, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

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. Next, check how the pin configuration of a type D plug differs from a type G plug.