Off to places like Belgium, France, or maybe even further afield to Tunisia and Morocco? Keep an eye out for the Type E socket.
This socket is tailor-made for a specific type of plug that sports two round pins plus an additional grounding pin, setting the Type E apart from others. It bears a resemblance to the Type F socket, but with a few key differences.
Features of Type E Socket
The standout feature of the Type E is the grounding pin, which juts out from the socket itself. This used to pose a problem for older Type F plugs that didn’t have a hole to accommodate this grounding pin.
However, modern advances have rectified this issue. Current Type F plugs, known as CEE 7/7, are now designed to fit these sockets by accommodating the grounding pin. This ensures a safe and secure connection, so when you’re travelling through these regions, rest assured that your modern devices will plug in just fine.

Number of pins | 3 |
Grounded | Yes |
Voltage | 220 – 240 volts |
Ampere | 16 amps |
Other types of plugs that fit | Type C and F |
Other sockets compatible with Type E | Type F sockets |
Do you need a travel adaptor for your UK devices? | Yes |
Click here if you need a travel adaptor for Type E
Dimensions
The Type E plug is precisely designed with two main pins, each 4.8 millimetres in diameter and 19 millimetres long, spaced exactly 19 millimetres apart. The grounding pin is notably shorter at 14 millimetres long, but matches the diameter of the main pins.
Using Type E Plug
The Type E socket is specifically tailored for its own plugs but is also fully compatible with the newer CEE 7/7 plugs, which work with both Type C and F sockets. Old-style Type E plugs, those without notches and grounding clips, are pretty much a thing of the past now.
You’ll stumble upon Type E sockets during your travels across various European and North African countries, including France, Poland, Tunisia, and Morocco. If you’re ever in doubt about the sockets at your destination, just pop over to the search function on this website.
The Necessity of a Travel Adaptor
It’s a wise decision to pack a suitable travel adaptor that’s compatible with Type E sockets for your trip. Without the correct adaptor, you run the risk of being unable to charge your devices, potentially damaging your charger, and in the worst cases, causing short circuits, electrical shocks, or even fire hazards. Better safe than sorry, so make sure to include one in your travel essentials to avoid these potential pitfalls!