Type M
3 round pins in triangle
Voltage
220-240V
Frequency
50Hz
Amperage
15A
Grounding
Grounded
Countries
9
About Type M
Type M is similar to Type D but larger, designed for higher current applications. The live and neutral pins are 7.1mm in diameter, while the earth pin is 8.7mm. Originally a British standard (BS 546).
Type M Plug & Socket Photos
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![Type M plug]()
Compatibility
Type M sockets may accept smaller Type D plugs, though this varies. Type M is essentially a larger version of Type D designed for higher current (15A).
Countries Using Type M Plug
9 countries
5 primary
Type M is used primarily in South Africa, Swaziland, and Lesotho. It's a larger version of Type D, designed for higher current applications up to 15A.
Africa (6)
Asia (3)
Other Plug Types
Frequently Asked Questions
A Type M plug is a grounded electrical plug with three large round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. It operates at 230V and is the standard plug type in South Africa. The pins are larger in diameter than Type D, making these plug types incompatible.
A Type M plug has three large round pins in a triangular configuration, similar in arrangement to Type D but with larger diameter pins. The grounding pin at the top is the largest. Type M plugs are noticeably bulky due to the large pin size.
Type M plugs are used primarily in South Africa, Swaziland, and Lesotho. They are also used for high-power applications in some countries that otherwise use Type D, such as India (for air conditioners and large appliances).
The main difference is pin size. Type M pins are larger in diameter than Type D pins, making them incompatible. Type M is used for higher-power applications (up to 15A) while Type D is rated for lower currents. They are used in different regions, with Type M in South Africa and Type D in India.
South Africa primarily uses Type M plugs, not Type D. While the two plug types look similar with three round pins in a triangle, Type M has larger pins. Type D plugs will not fit in South African Type M outlets.
Need an Adapter?
Check our travel guide for tips on choosing the right adapter for your trip.
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