Type E vs Type H Plugs: Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
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. You might also want type A vs type N plug.
Swipe to compare
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. Also see type H vs type O plug.
- 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.
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. Next, check can i use a type C adapter for type N.
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 Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine.
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.