Type K Plug 3 pins
DS 60884-2-D1 (Danish)
The Type K plug has two round power pins and a U-shaped earth pin, making it an earthed three-pin plug. It is designed for 220-240 V at 50 Hz and is used in Denmark and Greenland, though it is being phased out in Denmark in favour of Type F.
What Does a Type K Plug Look Like?
The Type K plug has two round power pins plus a U-shaped earth pin, which gives it three contacts in total. The power pins are round and the earth is a prominent U-shaped blade that protrudes from the plug body. It is an earthed, 16 amp plug designed for 220-240 V at 50 Hz. Recognise it by the U-shaped earth sitting above or around the two round pins.
Where Is the Type K Plug Used?
Type K is used in parts of northern Europe and nearby territories, notably Denmark and Greenland. It also appears as a secondary socket type in the Faroe Islands and Bangladesh. In Denmark the Type K plug has been widely used historically but is being phased out in favour of the Type F Schuko system, so you may find a mix of sockets. Expect to encounter Type K most commonly in older installations rather than as the dominant standard.
Which Plugs Fit a Type K Socket?
A Type K socket accepts Type C plugs directly, so many continental European plugs (Type C, E and F) will fit. Plugs from India that are Type D or the smaller Type C will also fit. Plugs from the US and Canada (A and B), the UK (G), Australia and New Zealand (I), and Japan (A and B) will not fit a Type K socket without an adapter. Ensure the adapter maintains the earth connection.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Fits a Type K socket? |
|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | No, bring an adapter |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | No, bring an adapter |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | Yes, no adapter |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | No, bring an adapter |
| India | Type D/C | Yes, no adapter |
| Japan | Type A/B | No, bring an adapter |
Travel Adapters for Type K Sockets
Travellers from countries whose plugs do not fit Type K sockets will need a plug adapter, notably visitors from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. European travellers and visitors from India often do not need an adapter because their plugs fit. Choose an adapter that provides an earth connection for safety, as Type K is earthed. Remember adapters only change plug shape, not voltage. Dual-voltage chargers and devices marked 220-240 V will work; single-voltage appliances may require a voltage converter.