Type L vs. Type M
Comparing 2 standards across 5 specifications. 5 key differences identified.
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.
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.
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 |