Type A vs Type E Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type A is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A 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 E socket, and vice versa. You might also want type C vs type F plug.
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Type A
|
Type E
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | CEE 7/5 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 2 |
| Amperage | 15A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type E
Here's how Type A and Type E compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type E 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 E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin.
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type A and Type E Compatibility
Type A in Type E 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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Type E in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E travel adapter. Next, check type D vs type G plug.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type E 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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type E plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type E follows CEE 7/5 — they differ in grounding, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type E plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas. Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. 1 countries use both, including Laos. Also see type A vs type B plug.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type E plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. For a related pairing, see type I vs type O plug.