Type G vs Type I Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V, while Type I is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A 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 I socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type L vs type O plug.
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Type G
|
Type I
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 1363 | AS/NZS 3112 |
| Pin Configuration | Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) | Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 13A | 10A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 220-240V |
Key Differences Between Type G and Type I
Here's how Type G and Type I compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type G and Type I are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm). Type I: Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin.
- Application: Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type I is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type G and Type I Compatibility
Type G in Type I 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 I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter. You might also want type C vs type G plug differences explained.
Type I in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type I plug (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) 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 I travel adapter.
Does a Type G plug fit into a Type I 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 I socket (Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin) without a travel adapter.
Are Type G and Type I plugs the same?
No. Type G follows the BS 1363 standard and Type I follows AS/NZS 3112 — they differ in pin design.
Which countries use Type G and Type I plugs?
Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including American Samoa, Argentina, Australia, China, Christmas Island. 2 countries use both, including Myanmar (Burma), Solomon Islands. Also see type I vs type N plug.
How can you tell a Type G plug from a Type I 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 I plug has two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin, and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.