Type M vs Type N Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type M is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 15A at 220-240V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type M plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. Also see type I vs type O plug.
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Type M
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 546 (15A) | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type M and Type N
Here's how Type M and Type N compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type M and Type N are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type M: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter). Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type M is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type M and Type N Compatibility
Type M in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter. Next, check is type D compatible with type G.
Type N in Type M Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type M or Type N travel adapter.
Does a Type M plug fit into a Type N socket?
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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type C vs type M plug.
Are Type M and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type M follows the BS 546 (15A) standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in voltage rating.
Which countries use Type M and Type N plugs?
Type M plugs are used in 9 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Eswatini, India, Lakshadweep, Lesotho. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa. 1 countries use both, including South Africa.
How can you tell a Type M plug from a Type N plug?
A Type M plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (earth 8.7mm diameter, live/neutral 7.1mm diameter), and is grounded. A Type N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.