Type E vs Type M Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type M plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A 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 E plug fits a Type M socket, and vice versa. Next, check type N vs type O socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type E	Type M
Standard	CEE 7/5	BS 546 (15A)
Pin Configuration	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	16A	15A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type E and Type M

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

Grounding: Both Type E and Type M are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type M is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type E and Type M Compatibility

Type E in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E 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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter. Compare this with comparing type D and type E plugs for international travel.

If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type E or Type M travel adapter.

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

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

Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E and Type M plugs the same?

No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in pin count.

Which countries use Type E and Type M plugs?

Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique. Also see how the pin configuration of a type A plug differs from a type D plug.

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

A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, 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 count: 2 vs 3.