Type H vs Type O Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type H vs Type O 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 O 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 O socket, and vice versa. Compare this with is a type F plug compatible with a type O socket.

Swipe to compare

Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type H	Type O
Standard	SI 32	TIS 166-2549
Pin Configuration	Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length)	Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	16A	16A
Voltage Range	220-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type H and Type O

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

Grounding: Both Type H and Type O are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type H: Three pins in V-shape arrangement (round 4.5mm or flat pins, 19mm length). Type O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
Application: Type H is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters. Type O is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type H and Type O Compatibility

Type H in Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.

Type O in Type H Sockets: Generally no. A Type O plug (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding 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 O travel adapter. Next, check what adapter converts a type A plug to a type N socket.

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

Does a Type H plug fit into a Type O 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 O socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)) without a travel adapter.

Are Type H and Type O plugs the same?

No. Type H follows the SI 32 standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in pin design. Next, check how do i tell a type C plug apart from a type N plug.

Which countries use Type H and Type O plugs?

Type H plugs are used in 3 countries, including Israel, Palestine, Gaza Strip. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand.

How can you tell a Type H plug from a Type O 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 O plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin), and is grounded. The quickest tell is pin size and spacing — compare the two pin configurations above.