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← All plug types§ 01 · Type E

Type E, explained.

Also known as · French plug · CEE 7/5 · Type E socket

Type E (also known as the French plug) is a grounded 2-pin plug rated at 220-240V and 50Hz, 16A. It is the standard plug in France, Belgium, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and 3+ other countries.

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.

§ 02 · The specs

Everything that matters, at a glance.

Pin layout, voltage, amperage, dimensions — the technical details for Type E in one tidy table.

Standard voltage
220-240V
Frequency
50Hz
Amperage
16A
Pin count
2 pins
Pin shape
Round pins with grounding hole
Grounded
Yes
Pin length
19mm
Pin spacing
19mm
History

Type E was developed in France as an alternative to the German Type F. The key difference is the grounding method: Type E has the grounding pin on the socket rather than the plug, which was considered safer at the time.

Safety

The grounding pin on the socket makes contact with the plug before the live pins, providing protection. The recessed socket design also prevents accidental contact with live parts.

Compatibility

Type E outlets accept Type C (Europlug) plugs. Type E/F hybrid plugs are widely available and work in both Type E and Type F sockets, making European travel easier.

§ Related plug types

Other plug types worth a look.

Neighboring plug types — same region, related shapes, or shared voltage zone. Useful when your trip has multiple stops.

§ Travel essentials

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§ Common questions
What is the Type E plug?+

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.

Which countries use Type E?+

Type E is used in France, Belgium, Poland and across Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Parts of Africa. See the full list below.

Is the Type E plug grounded?+

Yes. Type E has a dedicated grounding pin for safe operation with appliances that require an earth connection.

Do I need a voltage converter for Type E countries?+

Type E countries operate at 220-240V, 50Hz. Modern dual-voltage electronics (phones, laptops, cameras labelled "100-240V") work everywhere with just a plug adapter. Single-voltage appliances from a different voltage zone need a converter.

Can I use my iPhone or laptop charger with Type E?+

Yes. Apple chargers and most laptop power supplies are dual-voltage (100-240V), so they work in Type E countries with just a plug adapter — no converter needed.

§ Plan a trip

Going somewhere that uses Type E? Pluggy packs the rest.

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