Everything that matters, at a glance.
Pin layout, voltage, amperage, dimensions — the technical details for Type C in one tidy table.
The Europlug was developed in 1963 by the International Commission on the Rules for the Approval of Electrical Equipment (CEE) as a universal plug for low-power devices. Its design allows it to fit into many different socket types across Europe and beyond.
Type C plugs are ungrounded and designed only for double-insulated devices rated up to 2.5A (about 575W at 230V). They should not be used with high-power appliances like heaters or air conditioners.
Type C plugs fit into Types C, E, F, J, K, L, N, and O outlets. This makes them extremely versatile for travelers. However, they cannot fit into Type G (UK) or Type I (Australia) outlets.
120 countries use Type C.
Mostly across Europe and South America. Click any country for the full guide — voltage, adapters, and travel essentials for that destination.
Routes to and from Type C countries.
Country-to-country adapter guides for the most common trips involving Type C destinations.
Other plug types worth a look.
Neighboring plug types — same region, related shapes, or shared voltage zone. Useful when your trip has multiple stops.
Adapters travelers actually pack for Type C.
Three picks tested against Type C outlets — universal options that also work in 150+ other countries.
2 Pack European Travel Plug Adapter, International Power Plug Adapter with 3 Outlets 3 USB Charging Ports(1 USB C), Type C Plug Adapter Travel Essentials to Most Europe EU Spain Italy France Germany
Ceptics European Plug Adapter 4 Pack Set, USA to Europe, Italy, Germany, England, Spain, Italy, Iceland, France (Type C, E/F, G, L) - for Your Cell Phones, Tablets, iPhone, Camera (CT-EU-4SET)
Type F Schuko adapter with 2 USB ports. Perfect for Germany, Netherlands, Spain.
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Will my devices work? Run the check.
Type C runs at 220-240V, 50Hz. See exactly which of your devices plug in safely and which need a converter.
Every plug type, in one place. All 15.
Type A through Type O — what they look like, where they're used, which countries share them. The full reference our visitors come back to most.
Keep going. Explore further.
The other guides on PlugHopper that travelers find most useful when they're planning a trip.
Side-by-side database with shape, voltage, countries.
Why some chargers blow up and others don't — the dual-voltage rule.
The 30-second test that tells you which devices need which.
How the world ended up split between 110V and 240V.
Tested picks from universal kits to single-route adapters.
110V vs 230V and what it means for your devices.
What is the Type C plug?+
Type C is the most widely used plug type in the world, known as the Europlug. It features two round pins (4.0-4.8mm diameter, 19mm length) and is used throughout Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. It's designed for low-power devices up to 2.5 amps and operates on both 220-240V systems. The plug's universal design allows it to fit into most European socket types, making it incredibly versatile for travelers. However, it lacks an earth connection, so it's only suitable for Class II double-insulated appliances.
Which countries use Type C?+
Type C is used in Germany, France, Spain and across Europe, South America, Asia. See the full list below.
Is the Type C plug grounded?+
No. Type C is an ungrounded 2-pin plug. For grounded appliances you may need an alternative plug type or a grounded adapter.
Do I need a voltage converter for Type C countries?+
Type C countries operate at 220-240V, 50Hz. Modern dual-voltage electronics (phones, laptops, cameras labelled "100-240V") work everywhere with just a plug adapter. Single-voltage appliances from a different voltage zone need a converter.
Can I use my iPhone or laptop charger with Type C?+
Yes. Apple chargers and most laptop power supplies are dual-voltage (100-240V), so they work in Type C countries with just a plug adapter — no converter needed.
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