Type A vs Type D Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type A vs Type D plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. 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. Next, check should you choose type D or type M for an international travel adapter.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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 how do i tell a type A plug apart from a type G 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.

Type A vs Type D plug comparison: Type A and Type D wall sockets and plugs side by side, with the verdict and which way each plug fits, a specification table, key differences and how to tell them apart. Verdict: Not Compatible. — Type A vs Type D Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

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 United States of America, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand. Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. 4 countries use both, including Bangladesh, Myanmar, Yemen, Guyana. You might also want is a type B plug compatible with a type F socket.

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.