Global Power Plug Types
Database
The definitive reference for all 15 power plug types used worldwide. Technical specifications, pin dimensions, compatibility charts, and usage across 190+ countries.
Overview & Statistics
The world uses 15 distinct power plug types, labeled Type A through Type O. This diversity stems from the independent development of electrical systems across different countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before international standardization efforts.
Plug Type Usage by Country Count
Quick Reference Table
All plug types at a glance with key specifications
| Type | Common Name | Pins | Grounded | Voltage | Frequency | Amperage | Countries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type A | NEMA 1-15 | 2 | ✗ | 100-127V | 60Hz | 15A | 37 |
| Type B | NEMA 5-15 | 3 | ✓ | 100-127V | 60Hz | 15A | 31 |
| Type C | Europlug | 2 | ✗ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 2.5A | 121 |
| Type D | Old British plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 5A | 30 |
| Type E | French plug | 2 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 16A | 27 |
| Type F | Schuko | 2 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 16A | 61 |
| Type G | British plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 13A | 46 |
| Type I | Australian plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 10A | 11 |
| Type J | Swiss plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 10A | 4 |
| Type L | Italian plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 10A/16A | 9 |
| Type M | Large South African plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 15A | 9 |
| Type N | Brazilian plug | 3 | ✓ | 127V/220V | 60Hz | 10A/20A | 2 |
| Type H | Israeli plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-230V | 50Hz | 16A | 2 |
| Type K | Danish plug | 3 | ✓ | 220-240V | 50Hz | 16A | 4 |
| Type O | Thai plug | 3 | ✓ | 220V | 50Hz | 16A | 0 |
Plug Compatibility Matrix
Which plugs fit into which sockets? This matrix shows physical compatibility (whether a plug will fit), not electrical compatibility (voltage/frequency must still be checked).
| Plug → Socket ↓ | A | B | C | E | F | G | I | J | K | L |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type A | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Type B | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Type C | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Type E | — | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — |
| Type F | — | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — |
| Type G | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| Type I | — | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — |
| Type J | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — | ✓ | — | — |
| Type K | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ | — |
| Type L | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ |
⚠️ Important: Physical compatibility doesn't mean safe compatibility. Always verify voltage (110V vs 220V) and frequency (50Hz vs 60Hz) before connecting devices.
Type A
View full guide →Type A is a two-pin ungrounded plug with flat parallel blades. It's one of the most common plug types in North America, Central America, and parts of Asia. The plug was originally developed in the United States in 1904 by Harvey Hubbell II.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | No ✗ |
| Number of Pins | 2 |
| Pin Shape | Flat parallel blades |
| Voltage | 100-127V |
| Frequency | 60Hz |
| Max Amperage | 15A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 15.9mm |
| pin Width | 6.3mm |
| pin Thickness | 1.5mm |
| pin Spacing | 12.7mm |
Used in 37 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Most modern electronics have dual-voltage chargers (100-240V), so you typically only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter
- •Type A outlets in Japan may be slightly different, with both slots being the same size
Type B
View full guide →Type B is a three-pin grounded plug with two flat parallel blades and a round grounding pin. It's the standard grounded plug in North America and has largely replaced the ungrounded Type A for safety reasons.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Flat parallel blades with round grounding pin |
| Voltage | 100-127V |
| Frequency | 60Hz |
| Max Amperage | 15A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 18.3mm |
| pin Width | 6.3mm |
| pin Thickness | 1.5mm |
| pin Spacing | 12.7mm |
| grounding Pin Length | 4.8mm |
| grounding Pin Diameter | 4.8mm |
Used in 31 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type B is the safest option in 120V countries - always use grounded plugs when available
- •Some older buildings may not have Type B outlets - check before traveling
Type C
View full guide →Type C is the most widely used plug type in the world, known as the Europlug. It features two round pins and is used throughout Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. It's designed for low-power devices up to 2.5 amps.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | No ✗ |
| Number of Pins | 2 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 2.5A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4mm |
| pin Spacing | 18.6mm |
Used in 121 Countries
Travel Tips
- •The Europlug is your best friend for European travel - one adapter works almost everywhere
- •Only suitable for low-power devices like phone chargers and laptops
Type D
View full guide →Type D is an old British standard plug with three large round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. While phased out in the UK, it remains the dominant plug type in India, Nepal, and some African countries.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Large round pins in triangle |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 5A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 20.6mm |
| pin Diameter | 7.1mm |
| pin Spacing | 19.1mm |
| grounding Pin Diameter | 7.1mm |
Used in 30 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Essential for travel to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka
- •Some hotels in India offer universal outlets, but don't count on it
Type E
View full guide →Type E is the French standard plug featuring two round pins and a hole that accepts the grounding pin protruding from the socket. It's used in France, Belgium, Poland, and several other countries.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 2 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins with grounding hole |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4.8mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
| grounding Hole Diameter | 4.8mm |
Used in 27 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type E/F hybrid plugs are the best choice for European travel
- •Type C plugs work fine for low-power devices in Type E outlets
Type F
View full guide →Type F, also known as Schuko (from German 'Schutzkontakt' meaning 'protective contact'), is a grounded plug with two round pins and grounding clips on the sides. It's the standard in Germany and used across much of Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 2 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins with grounding clips |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4.8mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
| socket Diameter | 35mm |
Used in 61 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type F (Schuko) is one of the most common plugs in Europe
- •Type E/F hybrid plugs work throughout continental Europe
Type G
View full guide →Type G is the British standard plug with three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern. It's known for being one of the safest plug designs in the world, featuring built-in fuses and safety shutters.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Rectangular blades in triangle |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 13A |
Pin Dimensions
| live Pin Length | 17.7mm |
| neutral Pin Length | 17.7mm |
| earth Pin Length | 22.7mm |
| pin Width | 6.35mm |
| pin Thickness | 4mm |
Used in 46 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type G plugs are large - make sure your adapter bag has room
- •The built-in fuse can blow; carry spare 3A and 13A fuses
Type I
View full guide →Type I features two angled flat blades in a V-shape with an optional vertical grounding pin. It's used in Australia, New Zealand, China, and Argentina. The angled design is unique and instantly recognizable.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Angled flat blades with vertical ground |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 10A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 17.3mm |
| pin Width | 6.3mm |
| pin Thickness | 1.6mm |
| pin Angle | 30° |
Used in 11 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Australian and Chinese Type I plugs are slightly different - some adapters may not fit perfectly
- •Argentina uses Type I at 220V but also has some Type C outlets
Type J
View full guide →Type J is the Swiss standard plug with three round pins arranged in a line, with the grounding pin offset. It's unique to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, though Type C plugs also fit Swiss outlets.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins in line with offset ground |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 10A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
| grounding Pin Offset | 10mm |
Used in 4 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type C plugs work in Swiss outlets for phones and laptops
- •For grounded devices, you'll need a specific Type J adapter
Type L
View full guide →Type L is the Italian standard plug with three round pins arranged in a line. It comes in two versions: 10A (smaller pins) and 16A (larger pins). Type C plugs fit into both versions.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins in line |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 10A/16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter10 A | 4mm |
| pin Diameter16 A | 5mm |
| pin Spacing10 A | 5.5mm |
| pin Spacing16 A | 8mm |
Used in 9 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Bring a Type C plug for most devices - it fits both Italian outlet versions
- •For high-power devices, check if you need a 10A or 16A adapter
Type M
View full guide →Type M is a larger version of Type D, with the same triangular pin arrangement but bigger pins. It's primarily used in South Africa for high-power appliances and is also found in some other African and Asian countries.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Large round pins in triangle |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 15A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 28.6mm |
| pin Diameter | 7.1mm |
| pin Spacing | 25.4mm |
| grounding Pin Diameter | 7.1mm |
Used in 9 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type M adapters are essential for South Africa travel
- •Many South African accommodations have a mix of Type M, D, and sometimes C outlets
Type N
View full guide →Type N is the Brazilian standard plug, designed to be compatible with both Type C (Europlug) and have a unique grounding system. It was created based on the IEC 60906-1 international standard that was intended to become a world standard.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins in triangle |
| Voltage | 127V/220V |
| Frequency | 60Hz |
| Max Amperage | 10A/20A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter10 A | 4mm |
| pin Diameter20 A | 4.8mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
Used in 2 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type C plugs work for most low-power devices in Brazil
- •Brazil has two voltage standards: 127V (São Paulo, Rio) and 220V (Brasília, others) - always check!
Type H
View full guide →Type H is unique to Israel and Palestine. It originally had flat pins but was changed to round pins in 1989. The plug features three pins arranged in a V-shape pattern. Modern Type H outlets also accept Type C plugs.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins in V-shape |
| Voltage | 220-230V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
| pin Angle | V-shaped at approximately 120 degrees |
Used in 2 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type C plugs work in most modern Israeli outlets for low-power devices
- •Universal travel adapters usually include Type H compatibility
Type K
View full guide →Type K is the Danish standard plug featuring three round pins. It's similar to Type C but includes a grounding pin. The design is used primarily in Denmark, Greenland, and some African countries that were formerly Danish colonies.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins with grounding pin |
| Voltage | 220-240V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4.8mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
| grounding Pin Offset | Center, 3mm longer |
Used in 4 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Type C plugs work for most devices in Denmark
- •If you need a grounded connection, get a specific Type K adapter
Type O
View full guide →Type O is the official standard plug for Thailand. It's a hybrid system that can accept plugs from many different countries including Type A, B, C, and O itself. The Thai outlet is designed to be highly versatile for tourists.
Technical Specifications
| Grounded | Yes ✓ |
| Number of Pins | 3 |
| Pin Shape | Round pins with grounding pin |
| Voltage | 220V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| Max Amperage | 16A |
Pin Dimensions
| pin Length | 19mm |
| pin Diameter | 4.8mm |
| pin Spacing | 19mm |
Used in 0 Countries
Travel Tips
- •Thailand is very adapter-friendly - most plugs work without adapters
- •Type A, B, and C plugs all work in Thai outlets
Regional Distribution
🌎 Americas
Predominantly Type A & B (110-120V, 60Hz). Brazil uses Type N with mixed voltages.
🌍 Europe
Type C (Europlug) is universal. Type F (Schuko) in Germany/Spain, Type E in France, Type G in UK.
🌏 Asia-Pacific
Highly varied. Type I in Australia/China, Type G in Singapore/Hong Kong, Type A/B in Japan, Type D in India.
🌍 Africa
Colonial legacy: Type G (British), Type C/E/F (French), Type D/M (South Africa, India).
🏝️ Middle East
Type G dominant (British influence). Type H unique to Israel. Some Type C compatibility.
💡 Pro Tip
A universal adapter with Type A, C, G, and I coverage handles ~95% of destinations worldwide.
History & Evolution
The proliferation of different plug types began in the late 1800s when electricity started entering homes. Without international coordination, each country developed its own standards based on local engineering preferences and safety philosophies.
Timeline of Major Developments
- 1904: Harvey Hubbell II patents the first detachable plug (Type A) in the United States
- 1926: Albert Büttner invents the Schuko (Type F) plug in Germany
- 1947: Britain introduces Type G after WWII, featuring built-in fuses
- 1963: The Europlug (Type C) is standardized by CEE for European compatibility
- 2007: Brazil adopts Type N as the first country to use the IEC 60906-1 standard
Why So Many Types?
Several factors contributed to this diversity:
- Early development: Electrical systems developed independently before global trade made standardization important
- Colonial influence: European powers exported their standards to colonies
- Safety priorities: Different approaches to grounding, fusing, and shock prevention
- Economic factors: Replacing existing infrastructure is extremely expensive
The Future
While a single global standard seems unlikely due to the massive infrastructure investment required to change, USB-C is emerging as a universal standard for low-power device charging, reducing the need for plug adapters for phones, tablets, and laptops.
📚 Related Guides
Global Voltage Standards Guide
Understand 110V vs 220V systems and why different countries use different voltages.
Complete Travel Electricity Guide
Everything beginners need to know about using electronics abroad safely.
Voltage Safety Guide
Learn if your devices need voltage converters or just plug adapters.
Device Safety Calculator
Check if your specific devices are safe to use in your destination country.
Need Help Finding the Right Adapter?
Check our country-specific guides for detailed adapter recommendations, voltage information, and where to buy the adapters you need.
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