Type C vs Type N Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in grounding, voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type C plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. Next, check difference between type C and type F sockets.
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Type C
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type N
Here's how Type C and Type N compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type N 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 N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type C and Type N Compatibility
Type C in Type N Sockets: Type C Europlugs fit into Type N sockets but without grounding.
Type N in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type N socket?
Type C Europlugs fit into Type N sockets but without grounding. Also see type A vs type N plug.
Are Type C and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating. Next, check type J vs type N plug.
Which countries use Type C and Type N plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa. 2 countries use both, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type N plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.