Type E vs Type L Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type L 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 L is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/16A 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 L socket, and vice versa. Next, check type F vs type L socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type E	Type L
Standard	CEE 7/5	CEI 23-50
Pin Configuration	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin	Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	2	3
Amperage	16A	10A/16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type E and Type L

Here's how Type E and Type L compare, point by point. You might also want do you need a type B to type E plug adapter.

Grounding: Both Type E and Type L are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type L: Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart).
Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type L is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type E and Type L Compatibility

Type E in Type L Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter.

Type L in Type E Sockets: Generally no. A Type L plug (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) does not fit a Type E socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) without a travel adapter. Compare this with can i use a type I adapter with a type M 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 L travel adapter.

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

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

Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type E and Type L plugs the same?

No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type L follows CEI 23-50 — they differ in pin count.

Which countries use Type E and Type L plugs?

Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type L plugs are used in 11 countries, including Italy, Maldives, Chile, Cuba, Uruguay. 1 countries use both, including Syria.

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

A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. A Type L plug has three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3.