Type A vs Type F Plugs: Differences & Compatibility
Type A vs Type F 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 F 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 F socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see what are the differences between a type C and a type E plug.
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Type A
|
Type F
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | CEE 7/4 (Schuko) |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 2 |
| Amperage | 15A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type F
Here's how Type A and Type F compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type F 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 F: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides.
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type F is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type A and Type F Compatibility
Type A in Type F 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 F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter. Also see what are the differences between a type D and a type H plug.
Type F in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type F plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) does not fit a Type A socket (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) without a travel adapter. Next, check how the CEE 7/5 standard for type E compares to CEE 7/4 (Schuko) for type F.
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 F travel adapter. Also see type A vs type C socket.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type F 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 F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type F plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type F follows CEE 7/4 (Schuko) — they differ in grounding, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type F plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including United States of America, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand. Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Indonesia, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Greece. 6 countries use both, including Laos, Aruba, American Samoa, Liberia, Sint Eustatius.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type F plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type F plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.