Type M Plug 3 pins
BS 546 15A (South African)
The Type M plug is a large, earthed three-pin plug with three big round prongs arranged in a triangular pattern, rated for 220-240 V at 50 Hz and typically 16 A. It is the BS 546 15A variant, mainly used in countries such as India and South Africa.
What Does a Type M Plug Look Like?
The Type M plug has three large round prongs set in a triangular formation, noticeably bigger than the similar Type D. It is earthed, with the earth pin sized and positioned to give a secure earth connection, and the pins are thick and widely spaced. Look for the large round pins and substantial overall size when identifying it.
Where Is the Type M Plug Used?
Type M is best known in India and South Africa, and is also used in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini. It appears as a secondary or less common socket in Bhutan. In South Africa it is being phased out in favour of the newer Type N standard, but you will still encounter Type M in many locations.
Which Plugs Fit a Type M Socket?
Common traveller plugs do not fit Type M sockets without an adapter. US and Canada plugs A/B do not fit, UK G does not fit, European C/F/E do not fit, Australian/NZ I does not fit, India D/C do not fit, and Japan A/B do not fit. Although Type M is a larger version of Type D, the difference in size means Type D plugs generally will not fit reliably.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Fits a Type M socket? |
|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | No, bring an adapter |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | No, bring an adapter |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | No, bring an adapter |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | No, bring an adapter |
| India | Type D/C | No, bring an adapter |
| Japan | Type A/B | No, bring an adapter |
Travel Adapters for Type M Sockets
Visitors from most regions will need a Type M adapter that provides an earth connection and accepts their plug type. Choose a well made adapter rated for 16 A and 220-240 V, and ensure it maintains the earth link. Note that dual-voltage chargers and appliances will work with just an adapter, but single-voltage 100-120 V appliances from some countries require a step-up transformer, not only an adapter.