Everything you need to know about Swiss power cables with SEV approval

In this overview, we explain the most important properties and areas of application for Swiss power cables. In many procurement and application scenarios, a Swiss-compliant design is required – especially if cables are used commercially or placed on the market. In addition to the mechanical fit, standard references/test marks (e.g. SEV) also play a role.

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2-pole type C plugs in Switzerland and Europe

The 2-pin type C plug, which is widely used in many European countries, is also often used by holidaymakers or in private households in Switzerland. These plugs are almost identical to the 2-pin plugs used in Switzerland, but differ in small but important details.

Important note: EU Type C vs. CH 2-pin

EU Type C plugs and Swiss 2-pin plugs are almost identical, but differ in small details that are relevant to specifications. One key feature is the slight difference in the dimensions of the pins, which is less than 1 mm – this is small, but can be enough to prevent compliance with the strict SEV/Swiss specifications. For private use, an EU cable will often still work, but in a professional environment, the required specification (e.g. "CH/SEV") is what counts.

Tip: If "Switzerland/SEV" is required in tenders/standards, use the appropriate CH version.

SEV and ENEC approvals

For private use, cables from other countries (some with ENEC marking) may be usable in practice. The ENEC marking confirms compliance with European safety standards – but does not automatically replace a Switzerland-specific requirement. If "Switzerland/SEV" is expressly required in specifications, tenders or customer requirements, the appropriate CH version should be used.

EU Typ C YP-21A
EU version type C – category: 2-pin power cables For EU applications and private use – depending on device connection and power requirements.
CH Typ C YP-21S
CH version type C – category: power cable Switzerland (CH) For CH/LI requirements – here you will find Swiss versions (type C / type J) suitable for common device connections (e.g. C7/C13/C14/C15).

Necessity of separate 2-pin cables for trade and industry

For commercial and industrial applications, it is often necessary to use Switzerland-specific versions (e.g. due to internal standards, customer specifications or compliance requirements). This avoids queries, complaints and deviations in specifications.

This approach increases security and predictability in procurement and supports consistent quality in application.

3-pin plugs

The 3-pin plugs, often referred to as type J, are the earthed version and offer additional safety for devices that require a protective earth conductor. They have three contacts: two for power and one for earthing. Typical applications include computers, televisions, power strips and many household appliances.

CH Typ J YP-46
Switzerland Type J – Category: Power cable Switzerland (CH)

SEV approval

Depending on the application and requirements, a suitable Swiss reference/test mark may be required for the Swiss market. When in doubt, the Switzerland-specific product variant is the right choice when it comes to procurement for companies, institutions or resale.

3-pin with C19 appliance plug (16A)

Our Swiss power cables are equipped with type 12 and type 13 plugs and are designed for a maximum current of 10 amps. They are suitable for everyday use in households and offices – depending on the device, power and device connection.

C19 plugs are designed for higher-power devices that require up to 16 amps. In the UK, these applications typically require type 23 sockets, which are designed for higher amperage (often found in data centres/industry).

Important: Installations with type 12/type 13 are usually designed for 10 A. A 16 A application (e.g. C19) must be connected to a designated 16 A socket (type 23) and a suitably dimensioned supply cable.

Note on the product range: We do not currently stock Swiss power cables with C19 and Type 23 plugs in our standard range. As an alternative, you will find the category for Swiss power cables here: Power cables Switzerland (CH).

Visual difference between plugs for type 12, type 13 and type 23 sockets

A plug for a type 23 socket differs visually and structurally from type 12/type 13 due to its design for 16 A. This design ensures that a type 23 plug does not fit into a standard 10 A socket (e.g. type 13).

While Type 12 and Type 13 are used in standard applications (household/office), Type 23 is designed for higher currents and is more commonly found in technical and industrial environments.

Suitable product categories

Power cables Switzerland (CH) 2-pin power cables (EU type C)

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