Type H vs Type I Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type I plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type H is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A 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 H plug fits a Type I socket, and vice versa. Compare this with does a type A plug fit into a type B socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters
Type H power plug and wall socket
Type H
Type I power plug and wall socket
Type I
Standard SI 32 AS/NZS 3112
Pin Configuration Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin
Grounding Grounded Grounded
Pin Count 3 3
Amperage 16A 10A
Voltage Range 220-240V 220-240V

Key Differences Between Type H and Type I

Here's how Type H and Type I compare, point by point.

  • Grounding: Both Type H and Type I are grounded.
  • Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type I: Two angled flat pins (8mm long, 6.5mm wide, 30 degree angle) plus vertical grounding pin.
  • Application: Type H 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 H and Type I Compatibility

Type H in Type I Sockets: Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H or Type I travel adapter. Next, check what adapter converts a type A plug to a type H socket.

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

Does a Type H plug fit into a Type I socket?

Generally no. A Type H plug (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) 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 H and Type I plugs the same?

No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type I follows AS/NZS 3112 — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type H and Type I plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including Australia, China, Argentina, New Zealand, Fiji.

How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type I plug?

A Type H plug has three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length), 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. You might also want packing an adapter for a trip that has both type H and type L sockets.