Eastern European countries generally follow the Type C and Type F plug and socket standards, aligning with most of continental Europe. Below is a detailed overview:
1. Plug Types
- Type C (Europlug):
- Two round pins (4.0–4.8 mm diameter, 19 mm apart).
- Unpolarized and ungrounded, suitable for devices requiring up to 2.5A.
- Universally compatible with Type E, F, and most Eastern European sockets.
- Type F (Schuko):
- Two round pins + two grounding clips on the sides.
- Grounded, supports higher-power appliances (up to 16A).
- Dominant in countries like Poland, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia.
Note: Soviet-era GOST sockets (similar to Type C but with 4.0 mm pins) may still exist in older buildings in Ukraine or Russia, but most modern installations use Type C/F.
2. Voltage and Frequency
- Voltage: 230V (±10%) AC, standardized across the EU. Some countries (e.g., Russia, Belarus) historically used 220V, but modern systems align with 230V.
- Frequency: 50 Hz (uniform across the region).
3. Country-Specific Notes
- Poland, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria: Primarily use Type F; Type C is also common.
- Ukraine: Transitioned from GOST to Type C/F. Older buildings may retain Soviet sockets.
- Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia): Follow EU standards (Type C/F).
- Russia & Belarus: Type C/F plugs; voltage is 220V/230V, 50 Hz.
4. Travel Tips
- Carry a Type C/F universal adapter for compatibility.
- Dual-voltage devices (e.g., laptops, phone chargers) work without converters.
- Check high-power appliances (e.g., hair dryers) for voltage compatibility (230V input required).
Post time: Mar-27-2025