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

Type H is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A 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 H plug fits a Type J socket, and vice versa. Also see type D vs type K plug.

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Type H power plug and wall socket
Type H
Type J power plug and wall socket
Type J
Standard SI 32 SEV 1011
Pin Configuration Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)
Grounding Grounded Grounded
Pin Count 3 3
Amperage 16A 10A
Voltage Range 220-240V 220-240V

Key Differences Between Type H and Type J

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

  • Grounding: Both Type H and Type J are grounded.
  • Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type J: Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others).
  • Application: Type H 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 H and Type J Compatibility

Type H in Type J 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 J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter.

Type J in Type H 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 H socket (Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)) without a travel adapter. Next, check can i use a type C adapter for type E.

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 J travel adapter.

Does a Type H plug fit into a Type J 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 J socket (Two round pins (4mm diameter) plus offset grounding pin (center pin 10mm from others)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type J vs type O plug.

Are Type H and Type J plugs the same?

No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type J follows SEV 1011 — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type H and Type J plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine. Type J plugs are used in 4 countries, including Jordan, Liechtenstein, Maldives, Switzerland.

How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type J 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 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.