Type D vs Type F Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V, while Type F 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 F socket, and vice versa. Also see type E vs type N plug.
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Type D
|
Type F
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 546 | CEE 7/4 (Schuko) |
| Pin Configuration | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 2 |
| Amperage | 5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type D and Type F
Here's how Type D and Type F compare, point by point. You might also want type A vs type E plug differences explained.
- Grounding: Both Type D and Type F 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 F: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides.
- Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type F is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type D and Type F Compatibility
Type D in Type F 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 F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter.
Type F in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type F plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) 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. For a related pairing, see type B vs type G plug.
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 F travel adapter.
Does a Type D plug fit into a Type F 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 F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter.
Are Type D and Type F plugs the same?
No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type F follows CEE 7/4 (Schuko) — they differ in pin count.
Which countries use Type D and Type F plugs?
Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra. 3 countries use both, including Chad, Jordan, Niger.
How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type F 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 F plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides, and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 3 vs 2.