Type B vs Type H Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type B vs Type H plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type B is a 3-pin, grounded 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 voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type B plug fits a Type H socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see should you choose type E or type O for an international travel adapter.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type B	Type H
Standard	NEMA 5-15	SI 32
Pin Configuration	Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	15A	16A
Voltage Range	100-127V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type B and Type H

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

Grounding: Both Type B and Type H are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type B: Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter). Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
Application: Type B 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 B and Type H Compatibility

Type B in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) 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 B 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 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 H travel adapter.

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

Does a Type B plug fit into a Type H socket?

Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) 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. Also see type A versus type F plug shape and socket design compared.

Are Type B and Type H plugs the same?

No. Type B follows the NEMA 5-15 standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in voltage rating.

Which countries use Type B and Type H plugs?

Type B plugs are used in 54 countries, including United States of America, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Canada. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip.

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

A Type B plug has two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter), and is grounded. 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 pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.