TYPE G / EXPLAINED
How to recognize Type G
The three rectangular pins make Type G easy to identify. The earth position is above the live and neutral positions in the usual socket orientation. BS 1363 plugs normally contain a replaceable fuse, and compliant sockets use shutters over the live contacts.
- Common regions
- UK, Ireland, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and selected Gulf markets
- Contact arrangement
- Three rectangular pins in a triangle
- Common current variants
- 13 A
- Typical supply voltage
- Commonly 220–240 V supply
- Standard family
- BS 1363 family
- Socket accepts
- Matching Type G plugs
Earthing, compatibility & common mix-ups
The plug fuse protects the flexible cable and is selected for the appliance; the 13 A plug rating is not a command to fit a 13 A fuse to every appliance. A similar-looking socket is not proof of conformity. Some double-insulated appliances use an insulated shutter-opening pin rather than a protective-earth connection.
What the type letter tells you
The letter describes a recognizable connection family. It does not specify the complete wall plate, mounting box, shutters, terminal design or approval for a destination market. A plug's rated voltage is also different from the actual supply voltage at a location. An adapter changes the physical connection; it does not convert voltage or frequency.
Choosing a Type G socket for your market
Start with the destination country and the appliance connection you need to support. Then identify the exact national version within BS 1363 family, its marked current and voltage, and its earthing arrangement. The figures above describe common configurations; the supplied product's marking and technical documents define the actual model.
- Compare the complete contact pattern with the reference image, including the earth contact.
- Confirm the local supply voltage and frequency against the appliance input label.
- For a buying enquiry, include mounting format, current variant, quantity and required market documents.
Does physical fit mean the connection is suitable?
No. The earth connection, contact pressure, current rating, supply voltage and approved configuration all matter. Do not force a plug into a socket or remove an earth contact.
Reference image and initial type data: supplied global plug-and-socket workbook. Country context checked against Bel's World Plug and Input Voltage Guide. For South African configurations, see Interpower's SANS 164-2 guide. These recognition notes do not replace the applicable national standard or product documentation.