Type B vs Type N Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type B is a 3-pin, grounded 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 voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type B plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. You might also want type C to type D plug adapter.
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Type B
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | NEMA 5-15 | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 15A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 100-127V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type B and Type N
Here's how Type B and Type N compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type B and Type N are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type B: Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter). Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type B 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 B and Type N Compatibility
Type B in Type N Sockets: Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) 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 B 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 B socket (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type A vs type L plug.
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 N travel adapter.
Does a Type B plug fit into a Type N socket?
Generally no. A Type B plug (Two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter)) 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 B and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type B follows the NEMA 5-15 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in voltage rating.
Which countries use Type B and Type N plugs?
Type B plugs are used in 54 countries, including American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Azores. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type B plug from a Type N plug?
A Type B plug has two flat parallel pins plus round grounding pin (4.8mm diameter), and is grounded. 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 pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above. Compare this with type F vs type M plug.