Type N vs Type O Plugs: Voltage & Amperage Differences & Compatibility
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 F vs type G plug.
Swipe to compare
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. For a related pairing, see type A vs type D plug differences explained.
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.
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.
Which countries use Type N and Type O plugs?
Type N plugs are used in 2 countries, including Brazil, South Africa. Type O plugs are used in 1 countries, including Thailand. You might also want type D vs type E plug.
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.