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

Type F (Schuko) vs. Type L

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

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

Type L, Italy's standard, uses three round pins in a straight line rather than a triangle, in two incompatible sizes (10A and 16A). Chile and Uruguay use the same physical design, though no independently confirmed national standard document defines it in either country.

View full Type L spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

5 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Type F (Schuko)
Type L
Pin Count
2 round pins + 2 side grounding clips (not a third pin) 3 round pins in a straight line (unpolarized/reversible)
Rated Current
16 A 10 or 16 (two incompatible sizes) A
Rated Voltage
250 V 250 V
Grounded
Yes Yes, both sizes
Common Regions
Germany, Austria, Spain, Netherlands, Scandinavia, much of Eastern Europe and Russia -- notably absent from Belgium, Czechia, Ireland, Switzerland, and the UK Italy, Chile, Uruguay

Other Alternatives to Compare

Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type A → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type B → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type C → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type D → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type E → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type G → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type H → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type I → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type J → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type K → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type M → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type N → Compare Type F (Schuko) vs. Type O →