Type H vs Type M Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type M plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. 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. Compare this with what are the differences between a type D and a type O plug.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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 what adapter converts a type C plug to 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.

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

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. Also see will a type H plug work in a type J socket without an 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.

Which countries use Type H and Type M plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip. Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique.

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.