Type A vs Type D Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type A is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in grounding, voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type A plug fits a Type D socket, and vice versa. You might also want type C vs type G plug.
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Type A
|
Type D
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | BS 546 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 5A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type D
Here's how Type A and Type D compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type D adds a grounding pin or clips to protect against electrical faults.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type A: Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide). Type D: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type A and Type D Compatibility
Type A in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type A plug (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter. Compare this with type I vs type N plug.
Type D in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type D plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) does not fit a Type A socket (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) without a travel adapter.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type A or Type D travel adapter.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type D socket?
Generally no. A Type A plug (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type D plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type D follows BS 546 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type D plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas. Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. 4 countries use both, including Bangladesh, Guyana, Myanmar (Burma), Yemen. For a related pairing, see type D vs type M plug.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type D plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type D plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.