Type K vs Type L Plugs: Amperage & Pin Design Differences & Compatibility
Type K 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 K plug fits a Type L socket, and vice versa. For a related pairing, see type D vs type L plug.
Swipe to compare
Type K
|
Type L
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | DS 60884-2-D1 | CEI 23-50 |
| Pin Configuration | Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin) | 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 K and Type L
Here's how Type K and Type L compare, point by point.
- Grounding: Both Type K and Type L are grounded.
- Pin Size and Shape: Type K: Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin). Type L: Three round pins in a row (10A: 4mm pins 5.5mm apart / 16A: 5mm pins 8mm apart).
- Application: Type K 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 K and Type L Compatibility
Type K in Type L 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 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 K 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 K socket (Two round pins (4.8mm diameter) plus grounding pin (similar to Type F with additional ground pin)) without a travel adapter. For a related pairing, see type C to type J plug adapter.
If you're planning a trip, tell us which country you're visiting and we can confirm whether you need a Type K or Type L travel adapter.
Does a Type K plug fit into a Type L socket?
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 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 K and Type L plugs the same?
No. Type K follows the DS 60884-2-D1 standard and Type L follows CEI 23-50 — they differ in pin design.
Which countries use Type K and Type L plugs?
Type K plugs are used in 7 countries, including Bangladesh, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Guinea. Type L plugs are used in 11 countries, including Chile, Cuba, Easter Island, Eritrea, Italy. 1 countries use both, including Maldives.
How can you tell a Type K plug from a Type L plug?
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. 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.