Type A vs Type H Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type A vs Type H 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 H is a 3-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 H socket, and vice versa. You might also want how does the amperage rating of a type H plug compare to a type I plug.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type A	Type H
Standard	NEMA 1-15	SI 32
Pin Configuration	Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)
Grounding	Ungrounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	15A	16A
Voltage Range	100-127V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type A and Type H

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

Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type H 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 H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type A and Type H Compatibility

Type A in Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter.

Type H in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) does not fit a Type A socket (Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see how the pin configuration of a type B plug differs from a type J plug.

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 H travel adapter.

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

Does a Type A plug fit into a Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter. Next, check what are the differences between a type A and a type B plug.

Are Type A and Type H plugs the same?

No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating.

Which countries use Type A and Type H plugs?

Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including United States of America, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip.

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

A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type H plug has three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them.