Type D vs Type M Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type M plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V, while Type M is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 15A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type D plug fits a Type M socket, and vice versa. Also see how does the amperage rating of a type A plug compare to a type D plug.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type D	Type M
Standard	BS 546	BS 546 (15A)
Pin Configuration	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	5A	15A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type D and Type M

Here's how Type D and Type M compare, point by point.

Grounding: Both Type D and Type M are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type D: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter). Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type M is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type D and Type M Compatibility

Type D in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type D plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) 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 D 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 D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) 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 D or Type M travel adapter.

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

Does a Type D plug fit into a Type M socket?

Generally no. A Type D plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) 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.

Are Type D and Type M plugs the same?

No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type D and Type M plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique. 5 countries use both, including India, Nepal, Namibia, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep.

How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type M plug?

A Type D plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter), and is grounded. 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 pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.