# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Plug Types

Type B vs. Type F (Schuko)

Comparing 2 standards across 5 specifications. 4 key differences identified.

Comparing:
Type B
Type F (Schuko)
Type B →

Type B adds a round grounding pin to Type A's two flat blades -- NEMA 5-15, the most common outlet in North America. The ground pin is deliberately longer than the power blades, so it connects before and disconnects after them, a safety-sequencing feature shared with several other grounded plug types worldwide.

View full Type B spec sheet →
Type F (Schuko) →

Type F, universally called "Schuko" (German for "protective contact"), is the dominant grounded plug across continental Europe. Unlike most grounded plugs, its earth connection is made via two flat spring clips on the plug's sides rather than a third pin.

View full Type F (Schuko) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

5 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Type B
Type F (Schuko)
Pin Count
2 flat blades + 1 round ground pin (longer than the blades) 2 round pins + 2 side grounding clips (not a third pin)
Rated Current
15 A 16 A
Rated Voltage
125 V 250 V
Grounded
Yes Yes
Common Regions
USA, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Japan (grounded appliances) Germany, Austria, Spain, Netherlands, Scandinavia, much of Eastern Europe and Russia -- notably absent from Belgium, Czechia, Ireland, Switzerland, and the UK

Other Alternatives to Compare

Compare Type B vs. Type A → Compare Type B vs. Type C → Compare Type B vs. Type D → Compare Type B vs. Type E → Compare Type B vs. Type G → Compare Type B vs. Type H → Compare Type B vs. Type I → Compare Type B vs. Type J → Compare Type B vs. Type K → Compare Type B vs. Type L → Compare Type B vs. Type M → Compare Type B vs. Type N → Compare Type B vs. Type O →