Type D vs Type F Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type F 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 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. You might also want does a type G plug fit into a type M socket.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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.

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. Also see how do i tell a type A plug apart from a type E 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.

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

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. Also see is it safe to use a type B device on a type G socket.

Which countries use Type D and Type F plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Indonesia, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Greece. 3 countries use both, including Jordan, Chad, 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.