Type E vs Type H Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type H 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 H is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type E plug fits a Type H socket, and vice versa. Next, check how the CEE 7/16 (Europlug) standard for type C compares to SI 32 for type H.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type E	Type H
Standard	CEE 7/5	SI 32
Pin Configuration	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	16A	16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type E and Type H

Here's how Type E and Type H compare, point by point. Next, check what is the difference between type L and type M electrical sockets.

Grounding: Both Type E and Type H are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type E and Type H Compatibility

Type E in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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. Next, check comparing type C and type N plugs for international travel.

Type H in Type E 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 E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E or Type H travel adapter.

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

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

Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) 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 E and Type H plugs the same?

No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in pin count.

Which countries use Type E and Type H plugs?

Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip.

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

A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, 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 count: 2 vs 3.