What is Plug Type C?
Plug Type C is a plug without an earth ground, and due to its widespread usage in Europe it has gained the nickname ‘Europlug’.
There are no set positive and negative pins, which means you can connect the plug in either direction.
This makes using Type C slightly more convenient than the other plugs.
To improve safety, the pins have a small layer of insulation. That will ensure that people don’t get accidental shocks when they touch the device.
The space between Type C terminals is slightly bigger than Types A and B. Typically, these pins measure approximately three-quarters of an inch apart to reduce the risk of shorts due to pin contact.
What countries use Plug Type C?
Plug Type C has become the most widespread plug in Europe. It is used to power all sorts of devices, from phones and laptops to refrigerators, microwaves, and electric stoves.
It is especially popular in countries such as France, Spain, Germany, and Italy. Additionally, it can be found in much of Eastern Europe and North Africa as well.
The Plug Type C is even beginning to make its way into the UK market, with many products shipping with this type of plug included.
Overall, it is a popular plug for powering small appliances in much of Europe and beyond.
List of all countries that use plug type C around the world:
Europe:
- France
- Spain
- Germany
- Italy
- Portugal
- Netherlands
- Austria
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Slovakia
- Sweden
- Hungary
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Luxembourg
- Norway
- Finland
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Serbia
- Albania
- Republic of Macedonia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Lithuania
Africa:
- Tunisia
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Egypt
Asia:
Middle East:
- Qatar
- Kuwait
Where did Plug Type C come from?
Plug Type C was developed in the 1950s by German manufacturer VDE, as an efficient way to power small appliances. It gained popularity due to its small form factor and compatibility with other European plugs. As the plug became more widely adopted, it earned the nickname “Europlug”.
Can I get a Plug Type C travel adapter?
Yes, you can. Plug Type C travel adapters are available online and in most electronics stores. They allow you to plug your Type C devices into outlets with different plug shapes or voltages. This makes it easy to use your device while travelling abroad.
It is important to note that adapter plugs do not convert voltage, so make sure to check the voltage compatibility of your device before plugging it in.
Given its widespread adoption, Plug Type C is a great option for powering all sorts of small appliances in Europe and beyond.