Type E
2 round pins + grounding hole
Voltage
220-240V
Frequency
50Hz
Amperage
16A
Grounding
Grounded
Countries
35
About Type E
Type E features two round pins plus a hole for the grounding pin which protrudes from the socket. The pins are 4.8mm in diameter and 19mm long. This French standard is unique in having the ground in the socket rather than the plug.
Type E Plug & Socket Photos
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![Type E plug]()
Compatibility
Type E sockets accept Type C (Europlug) without grounding. Modern E/F hybrid plugs work in both Type E and Type F sockets.
Countries Using Type E Plug
35 countries
7 primary
Type E is the French standard, used primarily in France, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. It features a unique grounding system with a pin protruding from the socket rather than the plug.
Europe (7)
Africa (21)
Americas (2)
Oceania (1)
Asia (4)
Other Plug Types
Frequently Asked Questions
A Type E plug is a grounded electrical plug with two round pins and a hole for the grounding pin that protrudes from the socket. It operates at 230V and is primarily used in France, Belgium, Poland, and some other European countries. The grounding is achieved through a pin in the socket rather than on the plug.
A Type E plug has two round pins similar to Type C, but also has a hole on the top of the plug face to receive a grounding pin from the socket. This design is unique because the ground connection comes from the outlet rather than the plug itself.
Type E plugs are used primarily in France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and some other European and African countries that were historically influenced by France. Type E is sometimes referred to as the French plug.
Type E and Type F plugs are not directly interchangeable due to different grounding mechanisms. However, many modern plugs are designed as Type E/F hybrids that work in both socket types. These hybrid plugs have both the grounding hole for Type E and the grounding clips for Type F.
Type C plugs can fit into Type E sockets and will work for basic electrical connection, but you will not have grounding protection since Type C plugs lack the grounding hole. Type E plugs cannot fit into Type C sockets due to the grounding pin in Type E sockets.
Need an Adapter?
Check our travel guide for tips on choosing the right adapter for your trip.
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