Type H vs Type K Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type K 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 K is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type H plug fits a Type K socket, and vice versa. Also see can i use a type B adapter with a type L socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type H	Type K
Standard	SI 32	DS 60884-2-D1
Pin Configuration	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)	Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	16A	16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type H and Type K

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

Grounding: Both Type H and Type K are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type K: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin).
Application: Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type K is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type H and Type K Compatibility

Type H in Type K 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 K socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin)) without a travel adapter. Next, check how do i tell a type A plug apart from a type M plug.

Type K in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type K plug (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground 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 K travel adapter.

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

Does a Type H plug fit into a Type K 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 K socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type H and Type K plugs the same?

No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type K follows DS 60884-2-D1 — they differ in pin design. You might also want comparing type C and type J plugs for international travel.

Which countries use Type H and Type K plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip. Type K plugs are used in 7 countries, including Denmark, Maldives, Bangladesh, Senegal, Greenland.

How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type K 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 K plug has two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.