Type G vs Type N Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type G is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 13A at 220-240V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type G plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. You might also want type B vs type H plug.
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Type G
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | BS 1363 | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 13A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type G and Type N
Here's how Type G and Type N compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type G and Type N are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type G: Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern (live/neutral 6.35x3.18mm, earth 3.18x7.92mm). Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type G is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type G and Type N Compatibility
Type G in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Type N in Type G Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter.
Does a Type G plug fit into a Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter. Also see type J vs type K plug.
Are Type G and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type G follows the BS 1363 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in voltage rating.
Which countries use Type G and Type N plugs?
Type G plugs are used in 67 countries, including Abu Dhabi, Ascension Island, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type G plug from a Type N 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 N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above. For a related pairing, see type A to type F plug adapter.