Type F vs Type O Plugs: Differences & Compatibility
Type F vs Type O plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type F 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 F plug fits a Type O socket, and vice versa. Also see is it safe to use a type C device on a type N socket.
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Type F
|
Type O
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | CEE 7/4 (Schuko) | TIS 166-2549 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides | 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 F and Type O
Here's how Type F and Type O compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type F and Type O are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type F: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides. Type O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
- Application: Type F 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 F and Type O Compatibility
Type F in Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.
Type O in Type F 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 F socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides) without a travel adapter. Next, check comparing type I and type L plugs for international travel.
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 O travel adapter.
Does a Type F plug fit into a Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type F and Type O plugs the same?
No. Type F follows the CEE 7/4 (Schuko) standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in pin count.
Which countries use Type F and Type O plugs?
Type F plugs are used in 76 countries, including Indonesia, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Greece. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand.
How can you tell a Type F plug from a Type O plug?
A Type F plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter, 19mm long) with grounding clips on sides, 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. You might also want is it safe to use a type H device on a type O socket.