Off to South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, or certain parts of India? Chances are you’ll bump into Type M sockets there.
These sockets are known for their robust and substantial design, which makes them particularly suited for beefier appliances.
Features of Type M Socket
One standout feature of the Type M socket is the hefty size of the grounding pin. The pins on these sockets are significantly larger than those found on the somewhat similar Type D socket. This heft ensures a sturdy connection that’s ideal for higher power demands, so you can use your larger gadgets without a hitch. If you’re planning to plug in anything substantial, make sure your travel kit includes a suitable adaptor for these beefy sockets.

Number of pins | 3 |
Grounded | Yes |
Voltage | 100 – 240 volts |
Ampere | 15 amps |
Other types of plugs that fit | None |
Other sockets compatible with Type M | Type D sockets |
Do you need a travel adaptor for your UK devices? | Yes |
Type M sockets and plugs are designed to handle a current of 15 amps and support a voltage range of 100 to 240 volts. In India, they are primarily used for large appliances.
Click here if you need a travel adaptor for Type M
Dimensions
The outer pins of a Type M socket measure exactly 7.06 millimetres in diameter and 18.6 millimetres in length.
The pins are set 25.4 millimetres apart, and the central earth pin is 8.7 millimetres thick and 28.6 millimetres long.
Using a Type M Plug
Type M sockets are designed specifically for plugs of the same type and are commonly found in countries like South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho, and India.
In the UK, Type M is also used for certain stage appliances in theatres, and in places like the United Arab Emirates and Israel, it’s the go-to for air conditioners and some washing machines.
Since 2013, South Africa has started to standardise on the Type N socket, so the Type M version is slowly being phased out. New homes must have at least one Type N socket, although Type M can still be used.
If you’re heading to a country where Type M sockets are standard, don’t forget to pack a travel adaptor—your UK devices won’t plug in directly.
Always double-check your equipment’s specs and pop back to our website if you need to dig deeper.
The Necessity of a Travel Adaptor
It’s a smart move to bring a travel adaptor that fits Type M sockets. Without the right adaptor, you could end up unable to charge your devices, or worse—risk damaging your charger, causing shorts, electric shocks, or even fires. Better safe than sorry!