Type H vs Type I Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
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. You might also want type A vs type H plug.
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Type H
|
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 can i use a type A adapter for type B.
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 Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine. Type I plugs are used in 24 countries, including American Samoa, Argentina, Australia, China, Christmas Island. For a related pairing, see type F vs type H plug.
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.