Type B vs. Type G
Comparing 2 standards across 5 specifications. 4 key differences identified.
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.
Type G, the British standard (BS 1363, 1947), is the only common plug type with a fuse built into every single plug -- protecting the appliance's cord, not just the household circuit. It's used across the UK, Ireland, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and much of the Gulf.
Specification Comparison Table
5 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Pin Count
|
2 flat blades + 1 round ground pin (longer than the blades) | 3 rectangular pins in a triangle (earth pin longer than power pins) |
|
Rated Current
|
15 A | 13 A |
|
Rated Voltage
|
125 V | 230-240 V |
|
Grounded
|
Yes | Yes |
|
Common Regions
|
USA, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Japan (grounded appliances) | UK, Ireland, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Malta, Cyprus, Gulf states, over 50 countries total |