An overview of the plug and power cord standards used across European countries

1. Plug Types in Europe

European countries primarily use three main plug types, though variations exist:

  • Type C (Europlug)
    • Description: Two round pins (unrounded, 4.0–4.8 mm), no grounding.
    • Voltage/Frequency: 230V, 50Hz.
    • Used in: Most of Europe (e.g., Germany, France, Spain, Italy) as a universal fit for low-power devices.
  • Type E (French Standard)
    • Description: Two round pins + a grounding hole (female socket).
    • Voltage/Frequency: 230V, 50Hz.
    • Used in: France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, and parts of Africa.
  • Type F (Schuko)
    • Description: Two round pins + side grounding clips.
    • Voltage/Frequency: 230V, 50Hz.
    • Used in: Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden, and much of continental Europe.
  • Type G (UK Standard)
    • Description: Three rectangular pins (includes a fuse).
    • Voltage/Frequency: 230V, 50Hz.
    • Used in: United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, and some former British colonies.
  • Type J (Swiss Standard)
    • Description: Three rounded pins (similar to Type C but with grounding).
    • Used in: Switzerland, Liechtenstein.
  • Type K (Danish Standard)
    • Description: Two round pins + a grounding pin (bottom-facing).
    • Used in: Denmark, Greenland.

2. Voltage and Frequency

  • Standard Voltage: 230V (±10%) in most countries, harmonized across the EU since 2003.
  • Frequency: 50Hz (uniform in all European countries).

Exceptions:

  • Some older buildings in Italy, Spain, or Greece may still use 220V, but modern devices are compatible.

3. Regional Variations

  • Italy: Uses Type L (three round pins in a line; variants include 10A and 16A versions).
  • Spain: Mix of Type C and Type F; older buildings may have Type E.
  • United Kingdom/Ireland: Type G (unique design with fused plugs).

4. Travel Adapters

  • Type C plugs fit into Type E/F sockets but lack grounding.
  • Type E/F sockets are interchangeable in most cases.
  • The UK (Type G) requires a dedicated adapter.

5. Safety Standards

  • CE Marking: Mandatory for electronics sold in the EU/EEA.
  • Country-Specific Certifications:
    • Germany: VDE
    • UK: BSI (British Standards Institution)
    • France: NF

6. Key Tips for Travelers

  • Check your device’s voltage compatibility (e.g., 230V vs. 110V devices from the U.S./Japan).
  • Use grounded plugs (Type E/F) for high-power appliances like hairdryers.
  • Universal adapters are widely available for multi-country travel.
Post time: Mar-06-2025