Type H vs Type N Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
Type H is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V, while Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type H plug fits a Type N socket, and vice versa. Also see type C to type L plug adapter.
Swipe to compare
Type H
|
Type N
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | SI 32 | IEC 60906-1 |
| Pin Configuration | Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length) | Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A) |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Pin Count | 3 | 3 |
| Amperage | 16A | 10A/20A |
| Voltage Range | 220-240V | 100-240V |
Key Differences Between Type H and Type N
Here's how Type H and Type N compare, point by point. You might also want type B vs type O plug.
- Grounding: Both Type H and Type N are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A).
- Application: Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
Type H and Type N Compatibility
Type H in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Type N in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type N plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N travel adapter.
Does a Type H plug fit into a Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) without a travel adapter.
Are Type H and Type N plugs the same?
No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type N follows IEC 60906-1 — they differ in voltage rating. For a related pairing, see type A vs type M plug.
Which countries use Type H and Type N plugs?
Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Gaza Strip, Israel, Palestine. Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa.
How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type N 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 N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.