Type C vs Type O Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type C vs Type O plugs are compatible in one direction only: an adapter is needed the other way. 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. Compare this with type F vs type L socket.

Swipe to compare

Adapter Needed Type O needs an adapter for a Type C socket Compatible Adapters
Type C power plug and wall socket
Type C
 Type O power plug and wall socket
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.

Type C vs Type O plug comparison: Type C and Type O 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: Adapter Needed.
Type C vs Type O Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

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. You might also want do you need a type A to type O plug adapter.

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. Compare this with how do i tell a type G plug apart from a type K plug.

Which countries use Type C and Type O plugs?

Type C plugs are used in 157 countries, including China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand. 1 countries use both, including Thailand.

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.