Type G vs Type J Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type G vs Type J 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 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. You might also want type D plugs run on 220-240V while type G plugs run on 220-240V.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type G	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. You might also want type E plugs run on 220-240V while type K plugs run on 220-240V.

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.

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.

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

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 66 countries, including United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai. Type J plugs are used in 4 countries, including Switzerland, Maldives, Jordan, Liechtenstein. 2 countries use both, including Maldives, Jordan.

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. For a related pairing, see can i use a type I adapter with a type L socket.