There are many threads on this topic but I am still confused.
Do I need
Type-C or
Type-E with a round head?
On the page it says France for both Type-C and Type-E.
Want to charge Macbook, camera and iPhone
Thank you
Posted by
Reno, Nevada
1025 posts
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
2388 posts
I have used a "C" in France, Austria, Germany, Italy and Spain.
https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/phones-tech/electric-adapters-converters
Posted by
Basel, Switzerland
8889 posts
Your appliance, the thing you are trying to plug in, is it 2-pin or 3-pin. I.e.does it have an earth connection?
Type C is for 2-pin appliances
Type E is for 3-pin appliances.
Both will fit in the same type E sockets.
The type C adapter you picture is unsafe. It allows a 3-pin plug to be plugged into it, but only has 2-pins coming out. If you use it with a 3-pin appliance you do not have the necessary safety feature of an earth connection.
This does keep getting asked, but it is easy, you just need to count to 3 ☺
Posted by
Middletown, RI
1140 posts
For most travelers, a 2-pin (type-C) will do fine. What most tourists need an adapter for is charging computers, phones, rechargeable batteries, etc. (i.e., they only have two prongs). If you are one of the rare ones who needs a three-pin device (aka, with "ground"), you will need a type-E. I always carry both because I am OCD, but I also carry a 6-foot extension cord with multiple outlets so I can plug in several devices to the same adapter/outlet—usually located somewhere inconvenient like behind the bed...
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7565 posts
For the items you will likely bring, the two prong "C" is fine. If you really need a grounded plug, then bring both. The reason for both, is that not all receptacles will accept a grounded plug, especially if you are staying in older places.
Grounding is a safety measure, it does not affect the typical operation of the item, so circumventing the ground only adds an element of risk into the equation. But then all of travel is a risk, that's why it is so exciting. (an attempt at humor)
Posted by
Houston
3519 posts
Apple products do not have a ground pin, so C works for them.
Don't know what camera you have, but most will be OK with C unless they have a ground pin, then you will need an E.
You can buy the C type here in the RS store for $1 each. I have used those for trips over the past 15 years with no issues.