Type G vs Type H Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type G vs Type H plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. 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. Next, check what is the difference between type I and type J electrical sockets.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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. For a related pairing, see do you need a type E to type I plug adapter.

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.

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.

Type G vs Type H plug comparison: Type G and Type H 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 G vs Type H Plug: Differences and Compatibility (Infographic)

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 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip.

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. Next, check will a type A plug work in a type C socket without an adapter.