Type G vs Type H Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V, while Type H is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type G plug fits a Type H socket, and vice versa. You might also want type C vs type I plug.
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Type G
|
Type H
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 1363 | SI 32 |
| Pin Configuration | Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) | Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 13A | 16A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type G and Type H
Here's how Type G and Type H compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type G and Type H are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm). Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length).
- Application: Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.
Type G and Type H Compatibility
Type G in Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter. Compare this with is type A compatible with type C.
Type H in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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. For a related pairing, see type L vs type N plug.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type G or Type H travel adapter.
Does a Type G plug fit into a Type H socket?
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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type G and Type H plugs the same?
No. Type G follows the BS 1363 standard and Type H follows SI 32 — they differ in pin design.
Which countries use Type G and Type H plugs?
Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine.
How can you tell a Type G plug from a Type H plug?
A Type G plug has three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm), and is grounded. A Type H plug has three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.