Type D vs Type H Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type H 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 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 comparing type A and type F plugs for international travel.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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. Compare this with is a type I plug compatible with a type M socket.

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

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.

Which countries use Type D and Type H plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip.

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. Compare this with packing an adapter for a trip that has both type J and type K sockets.