Type E vs Type J Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type J 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 J is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A 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 J socket, and vice versa. You might also want does a type C plug fit into a type G socket.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type E	Type J
Standard	CEE 7/5	SEV 1011
Pin Configuration	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin	Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	16A	10A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type E and Type J

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

Grounding: Both Type E and Type J are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type J: Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others).
Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type J is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type E and Type J Compatibility

Type E in Type J Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter.

Type J in Type E Sockets: Generally no. A Type J plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) 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 J travel adapter.

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

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

Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type E and Type J plugs the same?

No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type J follows SEV 1011 — they differ in pin count. You might also want comparing type L and type O plugs for international travel.

Which countries use Type E and Type J plugs?

Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type J plugs are used in 4 countries, including Switzerland, Maldives, Jordan, Liechtenstein.

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

A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. A Type J plug has two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3. Compare this with type I vs type K socket.