Type N vs Type O Plugs: Differences & Compatibility

Type N vs Type O plugs are not compatible: an adapter is needed in both directions. Type N is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 10A/20A at 100-240V, while Type O is a 3-pin, grounded plug rated 16A at 220-240V. The two differ mainly in voltage, amperage and pin design, which is what decides compatibility — whether a Type N plug fits a Type O socket, and vice versa. Compare this with type E vs type M socket.

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Not Compatible Adapter needed in both directions Compatible Adapters	Type N	Type O
Standard	IEC 60906-1	TIS 166-2549
Pin Configuration	Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)	Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin)
Grounding	Grounded	Grounded
Pin Count	3	3
Amperage	10A/20A	16A
Voltage Range	100-240V	220-240V

Key Differences Between Type N and Type O

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

Grounding: Both Type N and Type O are grounded.
Pin Size and Shape: Type N: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A). Type O: Three round pins in triangular pattern (4.8mm diameter power pins, 4mm grounding pin).
Application: Type N is typically used for everyday household electronics and small appliances. Type O is typically used for heavy-duty appliances such as hair dryers, kettles, and heaters.

Type N and Type O Compatibility

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

Type O in Type N 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 N socket (Three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A)) 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 N or Type O travel adapter.

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

Does a Type N plug fit into a Type O socket?

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

Are Type N and Type O plugs the same?

No. Type N follows the IEC 60906-1 standard and Type O follows TIS 166-2549 — they differ in voltage rating. Also see type G versus type L plug shape and socket design compared.

Which countries use Type N and Type O plugs?

Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including South Africa, Brazil. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand. For a related pairing, see type A vs type D socket.

How can you tell a Type N plug from a Type O plug?

A Type N plug has three round pins in triangular pattern (4mm pins for 10A, 4.8mm pins for 20A), 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.