Type A vs Type N Plugs: Grounding & Voltage Differences & Compatibility
Type A is a 2-pin, ungrounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in grounding, voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type A plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type F vs type K plug.
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Type A
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 1-15 | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Ungrounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type A and Type N
Here's how Type A and Type N compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Type A has no grounding. Type N 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 N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type A is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type A and Type N Compatibility
Type A in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Type N in Type A Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type E vs type H plug.
Does a Type A plug fit into a Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type A and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type A follows the NEMA 1-15 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in grounding, pin count, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type A and Type N plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 61 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type A plug from a Type N plug?
A Type A plug has two flat parallel pins (15.9mm apart, 15.9mm long, 6.3mm wide), and is ungrounded. A Type N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is the grounding pin or clips — only the grounded one has them. Next, check type C to type N plug adapter.