Type H vs Type J Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type J 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 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. Next, check comparing type B and type K plugs for international travel.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type H	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. Next, check how the SI 32 standard for type H compares to BS 546 (15A) for type M.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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. Next, check packing an adapter for a trip that has both type C and type E sockets.