Type E vs Type G Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type G plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V, while Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type E plug fits a Type G socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see what is the difference between type F and type N electrical sockets.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type E	Type G
Standard	CEE 7/5	BS 1363
Pin Configuration	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin	Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	16A	13A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type E and Type G

Here's how Type E and Type G compare, point by point.

Grounding: Both Type E and Type G are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm).
Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type E and Type G Compatibility

Type E in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see what are the differences between a type K and a type O plug.

Type G in Type E Sockets: Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) does not fit a Type E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter. You might also want is a type C plug compatible with a type L socket.

If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type E or Type G travel adapter.

Type E vs Type G plug comparison: Type E and Type G 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 E vs Type G Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

Does a Type E plug fit into a Type G socket?

Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type E and Type G plugs the same?

No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type G follows BS 1363 — they differ in pin count.

Which countries use Type E and Type G plugs?

Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type G plugs are used in 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. 1 countries use both, including Rwanda.

How can you tell a Type E plug from a Type G plug?

A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3.