Type E vs Type N Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type E vs Type N 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 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. For a related pairing, see is it safe to use a type C device on a type M socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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.

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.

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

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. Also see is it safe to use a type A device on a type E socket.

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 France, Morocco, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including South Africa, Brazil.

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. Next, check type I plugs run on 220-240V while type O plugs run on 220-240V.