Socket Type A

When you’re travelling to North or Central America, or certain parts of Asia, you’ll notice that they mostly use Type A sockets.

This type of socket is specifically designed for a two-pronged, ungrounded plug with two flat, parallel pins.

Features of the Type A Socket

One thing to note about Type A plugs is that the pins often have small holes at the end. These holes help the plug fit securely into the socket, so it doesn’t come loose easily.

Number of pins	2
Grounded	No
Voltage	100 – 127 volts
Ampere	15 amps
Other types of plugs that fit	None
Other sockets compatible with Type A	Type B Sockets
Do you need a travel adaptor for your UK devices?	Yes

Type A sockets and plugs are designed for devices with up to 15 amps. They operate at a voltage between 100 and 127 volts. This type of socket, officially known as NEMA 1-15, was invented by Harvey Hubbell II back in 1904.

Click here if you need a travel adaptor for Type A.

Dimensions

The pins on Type A plugs are standardised, with a width of 1.5 millimetres and a length ranging from 15.9 to 18.2 millimetres. The pins are spaced 12.7 millimetres apart.

Use of Type A plugs

Type A sockets are exclusively designed for Type A plugs. However, you can also use these plugs in Type B sockets.

It doesn’t work the other way around though; Type B plugs won’t fit into Type A sockets.

You’ll find Type A sockets in countries like Aruba, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Japan, Mexico, and Thailand. If you’re not sure whether your holiday destination uses Type A sockets, you can use the search function (top right) on this website.

Other Essentials for Your Trip