Type E vs Type N Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type E plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. You might also want type D vs type F plug.
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Type E
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/5 | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 16A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type E and Type N
Here's how Type E and Type N compare, point by point. For a related pairing, see can i use a type A adapter for type E.
- Grounding: Both Type E and Type N are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type E and Type N Compatibility
Type E in Type N Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Type N in Type E Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter.
Does a Type E plug fit into a Type N socket?
Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type E and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in pin count, voltage rating.
Which countries use Type E and Type N plugs?
Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type E plug from a Type N plug?
A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. A Type N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3. For a related pairing, see type G vs type M plug.