Type M vs Type N Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type M vs Type N plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. 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 should you choose type B or type D for an international travel adapter.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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.

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. You might also want what is the difference between type E and type K electrical sockets.

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

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. Compare this with how the BS 546 standard for type D compares to BS 1363 for type G.

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 India, South Africa, Nepal, Namibia, Mozambique. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including South Africa, Brazil. 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.