Type A vs Type I Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type A is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type I is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A 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 I socket, and vice versa. Also see type B vs type K plug.
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Type A
|
Type I
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | AS/NZS 3112 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 10A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type I
Here's how Type A and Type I compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type I 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 I: Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin.
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type I is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type A and Type I Compatibility
Type A in Type I 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 I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Type I in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type I plug (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical 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. For a related pairing, see type C vs type E plug differences explained.
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 I travel adapter.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type I 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 I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type I plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type I follows AS/NZS 3112 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type I plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including American Samoa, Argentina, Australia, China, Christmas Island. 4 countries use both, including American Samoa, China, Myanmar (Burma), Tibet.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type I plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type I plug has two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. Next, check type D vs type K plug.