Type F vs Type G Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type F is a 2-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V, while Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type F plug fits a Type G socket, and vice versa. Next, check type A vs type G plug differences explained.
Swipe to compare
Type F
|
Type G
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/4 (Schuko) | BS 1363 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides | Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 2 | 3 |
| Amperage | 16A | 13A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type F and Type G
Here's how Type F and Type G compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type F and Type G are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type F: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides. Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm).
- Application: Type F is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type F and Type G Compatibility
Type F in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type F plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter. Also see type J vs type L plug.
Type G in Type F Sockets: Generally no. A Type G plug (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) does not fit a Type F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter. You might also want type N vs type O plug.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type F or Type G travel adapter.
Does a Type F plug fit into a Type G socket?
Generally no. A Type F plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) does not fit a Type G socket (Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type F and Type G plugs the same?
No. Type F follows the CEE 7/4 (Schuko) standard and Type G follows BS 1363 — they differ in pin count.
Which countries use Type F and Type G plugs?
Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra. Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. 3 countries use both, including Ethiopia, Jordan, Rwanda.
How can you tell a Type F plug from a Type G plug?
A Type F plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides, and is grounded. A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin count: 2 vs 3.