Type H vs Type M Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type H is a 3-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 H plug fits a Type M socket, and vice versa. Also see type K vs type N plug.
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Type H
|
Type M
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | SI 32 | BS 546 (15A) |
| Pin Configuration | Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 16A | 15A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type H and Type M
Here's how Type H and Type M compare, point by point. You might also want does a type C plug fit a type D socket.
- Grounding: Both Type H and Type M are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type H 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 H and Type M Compatibility
Type H in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H or Type M travel adapter.
Does a Type H plug fit into a Type M socket?
Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H and Type M plugs the same?
No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type M follows BS 546 (15A) — they differ in pin design. For a related pairing, see type A vs type O plug.
Which countries use Type H and Type M plugs?
Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Eswatini, India, Lakshadweep, Lesotho.
How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type M plug?
A Type H plug has three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length), 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.