Type D vs Type L Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type L 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 L is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/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 L socket, and vice versa. You might also want is a type F plug compatible with a type J socket.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type D	Type L
Standard	BS 546	CEI 23-50
Pin Configuration	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)	Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	5A	10A/16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type D and Type L

Here's how Type D and Type L compare, point by point. For a related pairing, see is it safe to use a type A device on a type J socket.

Grounding: Both Type D and Type L 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 L: Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart).
Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type L is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type D and Type L Compatibility

Type D in Type L 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 L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter.

Type L in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type L plug (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) 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 L travel adapter.

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

Does a Type D plug fit into a Type L 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 L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter. You might also want type C plugs run on 220-240V while type J plugs run on 220-240V.

Are Type D and Type L plugs the same?

No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type L follows CEI 23-50 — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type D and Type L plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type L plugs are used in 11 countries, including Italy, Maldives, Chile, Cuba, Uruguay. 1 countries use both, including Maldives.

How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type L 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 L plug has three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.