Type B vs Type D Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type B is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 15A at 100-127V, while Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type B plug fits a Type D socket, and vice versa. Next, check type I vs type L plug.
Swipe to compare
Type B
|
Type D
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 5-15 | BS 546 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter) | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 5A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type B and Type D
Here's how Type B and Type D compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type B and Type D are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type B: Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter). Type D: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter).
- Application: Type B is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type B and Type D Compatibility
Type B in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter.
Type D in Type B Sockets: Generally no. A Type D plug (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) does not fit a Type B socket (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) 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 B or Type D travel adapter.
Does a Type B plug fit into a Type D socket?
Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) does not fit a Type D socket (Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)) without a travel adapter. You might also want type D vs type G plug differences explained.
Are Type B and Type D plugs the same?
No. Type B follows the NEMA 5-15 standard and Type D follows BS 546 — they differ in voltage rating. Next, check type G vs type J plug.
Which countries use Type B and Type D plugs?
Type B plugs are used in 54 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Azores. Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. 1 countries use both, including Guyana.
How can you tell a Type B plug from a Type D plug?
A Type B plug has two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter), and is grounded. A Type D plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.