Type E vs Type O Plugs: Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type E is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V, while Type O 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 O socket, and vice versa. Also see type J vs type K plug.
Swipe to compare
Type E
|
Type O
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/5 | TIS 166-2549 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 16A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type E and Type O
Here's how Type E and Type O compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type E and Type O are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type E: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin. Type O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
- Application: Type E is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type O is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type E and Type O Compatibility
Type E in Type O Sockets: Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter. Compare this with type D vs type H plug.
Type O in Type E Sockets: Generally no. A Type O plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) 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 O travel adapter.
Does a Type E plug fit into a Type O socket?
Generally no. A Type E plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin) does not fit a Type O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type E and Type O plugs the same?
No. Type E follows the CEE 7/5 standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in pin count.
Which countries use Type E and Type O plugs?
Type E plugs are used in 44 countries, including Belgium, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand.
How can you tell a Type E plug from a Type O plug?
A Type E plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus hole for socket grounding pin, and is grounded. A Type O plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3. Also see does a type A plug fit a type F socket.