# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Plug Types

Type L vs. Type M

Comparing 2 standards across 5 specifications. 5 key differences identified.

Comparing:
Type L
Type M

Type L, Italy's standard, uses three round pins in a straight line rather than a triangle, in two incompatible sizes (10A and 16A). Chile and Uruguay use the same physical design, though no independently confirmed national standard document defines it in either country.

View full Type L spec sheet →

Type M is South Africa's large-pin standard -- the 15A variant of the same BS 546 family that produces Type D at 5A. The two share a triangular 3-round-pin layout and standard lineage but use different pin sizes, so they are not physically interchangeable.

View full Type M spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

5 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Pin Count
3 round pins in a straight line (unpolarized/reversible) 3 round pins in a triangle, larger than Type D's
Rated Current
10 or 16 (two incompatible sizes) A 15 A
Rated Voltage
250 V 220-250 V
Grounded
Yes, both sizes Yes
Common Regions
Italy, Chile, Uruguay South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, also found in India and Nepal for heavy-duty circuits