Type C vs Type O Plugs: Grounding & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type C is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 2.5A at 220-240V, while Type O is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 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 O socket, and vice versa. You might also want can i use a type F adapter for type L.
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Type C
|
Type O
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/16 (Europlug) | TIS 166-2549 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 2.5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type C and Type O
Here's how Type C and Type O compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type C has no grounding. Type O 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 O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
- Application: Type C is typically used for low-power, double-insulated devices like phone chargers, razors, and small electronics. Type O is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type C and Type O Compatibility
Type C in Type O Sockets: Type O outlets accept Type C Europlugs for backward compatibility with existing ungrounded appliances.
Type O in Type C Sockets: Generally no. A Type O plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) 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 O travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type E vs type L plug.
Does a Type C plug fit into a Type O socket?
Type O outlets accept Type C Europlugs for backward compatibility with existing ungrounded appliances.
Are Type C and Type O plugs the same?
No. Type C follows the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in grounding, pin count.
Which countries use Type C and Type O plugs?
Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andorra. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand. 1 countries use both, including Thailand. Also see type M vs type O plug.
How can you tell a Type C plug from a Type O plug?
A Type C plug has two round pins (4mm diameter, 19mm long, 18.6mm apart), and is ungrounded. A Type O plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.