Type D vs Type H Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V, while Type H is a 3-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 H socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type E vs type O plug.
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Type D
|
Type H
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 546 | SI 32 |
| Pin Configuration | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) | Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type D and Type H
Here's how Type D and Type H compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type D and Type H 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 H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
- Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type D and Type H Compatibility
Type D in Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter.
Type H in Type D 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 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 H travel adapter.
Does a Type D plug fit into a Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type D and Type H plugs the same?
No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in pin design. Also see type A to type F plug adapter.
Which countries use Type D and Type H plugs?
Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine.
How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type H 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 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.