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← All plug types§ 01 · Type L

Type L, explained.

Also known as · Italian plug · CEI 23-50 · Italy plug

Type L (also known as the Italian plug) is a grounded 3-pin plug rated at 220-240V and 50Hz, 10A/16A. It is the standard plug in Italy, San Marino, Libya, Ethiopia, Eritrea and 1+ other countries.

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.

§ 02 · The specs

Everything that matters, at a glance.

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

Standard voltage
220-240V
Frequency
50Hz
Amperage
10A/16A
Pin count
3 pins
Pin shape
Round pins in line
Grounded
Yes
Pin length
19mm
History

Italy developed its own plug standard that has remained largely unchanged. The unique inline design with the center grounding pin is found only in Italy and a few other countries. The two amperage versions can cause confusion.

Safety

The 16A version has thicker pins and is designed for high-power appliances. Many Italian outlets now accept both 10A and 16A versions. The recessed socket design provides protection against accidental contact.

Compatibility

Type C plugs fit into Type L outlets. The 10A and 16A versions are not interchangeable due to different pin diameters. Some modern Italian outlets accept both versions and even Type F (Schuko) plugs.

§ 03 · Where it's used

9 countries use Type L.

Mostly across Italy and Parts of North Africa. Click any country for the full guide — voltage, adapters, and travel essentials for that destination.

ItalyParts of North Africa
🇨🇱Chile🇪🇷Eritrea🇪🇹Ethiopia🇮🇹Italy🇱🇾Libya🇸🇲San Marino🇸🇾Syria🇺🇾Uruguay🇻🇦Vatican City
§ 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

What every traveler should pack — and why.

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§ Common questions
What is the Type L plug?+

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.

Which countries use Type L?+

Type L is used in Italy, San Marino, Libya and across Italy, Parts of North Africa. See the full list below.

Is the Type L plug grounded?+

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

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

Type L 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 L?+

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

§ Plan a trip

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

Tell Pluggy where you're going and we'll build a packing list — weather, the right adapter, eSIM, what to leave at home.

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