Type D vs Type N Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type D vs Type N 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 N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type D plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. You might also want comparing type A and type K plugs for international travel.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type D	Type N
Standard	BS 546	IEC 60906-1
Pin Configuration	Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter)	Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	5A	10A/20A
Voltage Range	220-240V	100-240V

Key Differences Between Type D and Type N

Here's how Type D and Type N compare, point by point.

Grounding: Both Type D and Type N 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 N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type D and Type N Compatibility

Type D in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter. You might also want how the pin configuration of a type J plug differs from a type N plug.

Type N in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter.

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

Does a Type D plug fit into a Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type D and Type N plugs the same?

No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in voltage rating.

Which countries use Type D and Type N plugs?

Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including India, Maldives, Nepal, Tanzania, Jordan. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including South Africa, Brazil. Compare this with which countries use type B plugs versus type M plugs.

How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type N 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 N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.