Type D vs Type O Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type D is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 5A at 220-240V, while Type O 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 O socket, and vice versa. Also see type C to type D plug adapter.
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Type D
|
Type O
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 546 | TIS 166-2549 |
| Pin Configuration | Three large round pins in triangular pattern (ground pin 7.1mm, live/neutral 5.1mm diameter) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 5A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type D and Type O
Here's how Type D and Type O compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type D and Type O 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 O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
- Application: Type D is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type O is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type D and Type O Compatibility
Type D in Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.
Type O in Type D Sockets: Generally no. A Type O plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) 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 O travel adapter.
Does a Type D plug fit into a Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter. You might also want type F vs type I plug.
Are Type D and Type O plugs the same?
No. Type D follows the BS 546 standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in pin design.
Which countries use Type D and Type O plugs?
Type D plugs are used in 31 countries, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Botswana, Chad. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand.
How can you tell a Type D plug from a Type O 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 O plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above. Also see type A vs type L plug.