Type A vs Type B Plugs
Compare American Type A (ungrounded) and Type B (grounded) plugs.
Type A
Type A
Voltage: 100-127V
Current: 15A
Grounded: No
Countries: 44
Type B
Type B
Voltage: 100-127V
Current: 15A
Grounded: Yes
Countries: 38
Key Differences
- Type B has a third round grounding pin
- Type B provides better electrical safety
- Type A is more compact and lighter
- Type B outlets always accept Type A plugs
Similarities
- Both use flat parallel blades
- Same voltage (120V) and frequency (60Hz)
- Used primarily in North America
- Blade spacing is identical
🎯 Real-World Travel Compatibility
⚠️
Practical Travel Reality
Physical compatibility doesn't guarantee real-world usability. Here's what travelers actually encounter:
Type A
44 countries officially, 16 as primary
PRIMARY usage: 16 countries
Dominant in: Bolivia, Cambodia, China, Colombia, Cuba
SECONDARY/LEGACY: 28 countries
Found in some outlets but not reliable for travelers
Type B
38 countries officially, 25 as primary
PRIMARY usage: 25 countries
Dominant in: Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica
SECONDARY/LEGACY: 13 countries
Found in some outlets but not reliable for travelers
⚠️ Traveler Warnings
🇺🇸 In North America: Both work everywhere, but Type B is standard in modern installations. Some older outlets only accept Type A.
💡 Why this matters: Most travel guides list theoretical compatibility. This analysis shows what plugs you'll actually find in 90%+ of outlets.
