Type G vs Type I Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type G vs Type I 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 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. Also see packing an adapter for a trip that has both type C and type G sockets.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	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. You might also want how the pin configuration of a type C plug differs from a type K plug.

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.

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.

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

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 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including Australia, China, Argentina, New Zealand, Fiji. 2 countries use both, including Myanmar, Solomon Islands. You might also want why a type B plug is grounded and a type C plug is not.

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.