Type H vs Type L Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type L 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 L is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/16A 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 L socket, and vice versa. Also see will a type B plug work in a type M socket without an adapter.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type H	Type L
Standard	SI 32	CEI 23-50
Pin Configuration	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)	Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	16A	10A/16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type H and Type L

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

Grounding: Both Type H and Type L are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type L: Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart).
Application: Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type L is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.

Type H and Type L Compatibility

Type H in Type L 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 L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter.

Type L in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type L plug (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) 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. Compare this with type J versus type N plug shape and socket design compared.

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 L travel adapter.

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

Does a Type H plug fit into a Type L 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 L socket (Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type H and Type L plugs the same?

No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type L follows CEI 23-50 — they differ in pin design.

Which countries use Type H and Type L plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip. Type L plugs are used in 11 countries, including Italy, Maldives, Chile, Cuba, Uruguay.

How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type L 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 L plug has three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above. Next, check is a type H plug compatible with a type I socket.