Type G vs Type M Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type G vs Type M plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A 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 G plug fits a Type M socket, and vice versa. You might also want will a type A plug work in a type E socket without an adapter.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type G	Type M
Standard	BS 1363	BS 546 (15A)
Pin Configuration	Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	13A	15A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type G and Type M

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

Grounding: Both Type G and Type M are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm). Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
Application: Type G 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 G and Type M Compatibility

Type G in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) 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 G 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 G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter. Next, check what are the differences between a type D and a type F plug.

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

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

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

Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) 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 G and Type M plugs the same?

No. Type G follows the BS 1363 standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type G and Type M plugs?

Type G plugs are used in 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique.

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

A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), 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.