Type A vs Type G Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type A vs Type G 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 G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A 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 G socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type A vs type D socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type A	Type G
Standard	NEMA 1-15	BS 1363
Pin Configuration	Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)	Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)
Grounding	Ungrounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	15A	13A
Voltage Range	100-127V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type A and Type G

Here's how Type A and Type G compare, point by point.

Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type G 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 G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm).
Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type A and Type G Compatibility

Type A in Type G 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 G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter.

Type G in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) 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 G travel adapter. For a related pairing, see is it safe to use a type C device on a type J socket.

Type A vs Type G plug comparison: Type A and Type G 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 G Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

Does a Type A plug fit into a Type G 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 G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type A and Type G plugs the same?

No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type G follows BS 1363 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating. Also see which countries use type F plugs versus type G plugs.

Which countries use Type A and Type G plugs?

Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including United States of America, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand. Type G plugs are used in 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. 7 countries use both, including Cambodia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Belize, Yemen.

How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type G plug?

A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. Compare this with how does the amperage rating of a type D plug compare to a type M plug.