The Kaeya Simp

@The Spitfire Simp It's true some outlet plugs are the same size on both prongs. From what I've seen, it doesn't matter which way you plug it in. At that point, it's universal. I've never had any problems plugging them in one way or the other.

There have even been situations where I plugged something with two-prongs in the wrong way, and it was still fine. So maybe the different prong sizes (and the different sized outlet holes) are just for people who are use to plugs fitting in an exact or specific way. The only time it matters is when it has that third prong. 

But don't take my word for it. I'm not an electrician. And phone chargers are an even more complicated thing.

@Samurai Equineoh i see
i guess it must have been confusing to me cause here in the UK we have a rigid standard

Rereading some(nema), there is not supposed to be any "universal" way(or highly discouraged), but those that are, are supposed to be made to work, without issue, either way, and it's not like the "great factory of the east" really cares about standards anyways.

Polarized (one big one smaller) are for larger loads or where "hot" and "neutral" matter, the bigger is the neutral, smaller hot side. Neutral is usually tied to ground too.

The grounded plugs are supposed to be polarized too(so you can't pull the ground pin and use it the other way) and are "being encouraged for wider use".

The only thing dangerous is those "safety outlets" where you about break or bend the prongs trying to plug it in. Good idea, horrible execution, to the point of where people actively avoid using them, even though it is code in some areas.

Its somewhat...amusing isn't the right word, to see European reactions and comments on the NEMA standards in use in North America.