Type D vs Type E Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type E plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V, while Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type D plug fits a Type E socket, and vice versa. Next, check why a type D plug is grounded and a type A plug is not.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type D	Type E
Standard	BS 546	CEE 7/5
Pin Configuration	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	2
Amperage	5A	16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type D and Type E

Here's how Type D and Type E compare, point by point.

Grounding: Both Type D and Type E are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type D: Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter). Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin.
Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type D and Type E Compatibility

Type D in Type E 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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter.

Type E in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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.

If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type D or Type E travel adapter.

Type D vs Type E plug comparison: Type D and Type E 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 D vs Type E Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

Does a Type D plug fit into a Type E socket?

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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter.

Are Type D and Type E plugs the same?

No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type E follows CEE 7/5 — they differ in pin count. You might also want type B vs type F plug.

Which countries use Type D and Type E plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. 3 countries use both, including Senegal, Chad, Niger. You might also want can i use a type E adapter with a type M socket.

How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type E plug?

A Type D plug has three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter), and is grounded. A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 3 vs 2.