Type G vs Type J Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility

Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V, while Type J 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 J socket, and vice versa. Also see can i use a type D adapter for type G.

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Type G power plug and wall socket
Type G
Type J power plug and wall socket
Type J
Standard BS 1363 SEV 1011
Pin Configuration Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)
Grounding Grounded Grounded
Pin Count 3 3
Amperage 13A 10A
Voltage Range 220-240V 220-240V

Key Differences Between Type G and Type J

Here's how Type G and Type J compare, point by point.

  • Grounding: Both Type G and Type J are grounded.
  • Pin Size and Shape: Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm). Type J: Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others).
  • Application: Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type J is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type G and Type J Compatibility

Type G in Type J 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 J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter. Also see type B vs type D plug.

Type J in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type J plug (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) 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 J travel adapter.

Does a Type G plug fit into a Type J 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 J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type G and Type J plugs the same?

No. Type G follows the BS 1363 standard and Type J follows SEV 1011 — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type G and Type J plugs?

Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. Type J plugs are used in 4 countries, including Jordan, Liechtenstein, Maldives, Switzerland. 2 countries use both, including Jordan, Maldives.

How can you tell a Type G plug from a Type J 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 J plug has two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above. Next, check type E vs type K plug.