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Best type L plug adapter

Everything you need to know about type L plugs: technical specifications, countries of use, and compatibility with other plug types.

Type L

Italian plug

11 countries10/16AGrounded
AfricaEuropeSouth AmericaAsia

Compatible with Type C

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Technical specifications

Common nameItalian plug
GroundingYes
Amperage10 / 16 A

Italian plug with 3 aligned pins

Voltage and frequency

Voltage and frequency in countries using type L plugs

Voltage

230V
7Most common
220V
3
110V
1

Frequency

50 Hz
10Most common
60 Hz
1

How to use a type L adapter

1/4

Check compatibility

Before your trip, check that your devices support the voltage and frequency of the destination country.

2/4

Buy an adapter

Get a quality type L plug adapter. Choose a universal adapter for greater versatility.

3/4

Plug in safely

First insert the adapter into the wall socket, then plug your device into the adapter.

4/4

Check operation

Make sure your device works properly. If you notice overheating, unplug immediately.

Countries using type L plugs

11 countries around the world use this plug type

Comparison with compatible types

Type L
Type C
Type F
Type A
Type E
Pins3 pins in line2 round pins2 round + ground clips2 flat pins2 round + ground hole
GroundGroundedNo groundGroundedNo groundGrounded
Amperage10/16A2.5A16A15A16A
Countries11150746346
Type C(EU plug (Europlug))
Type CType L
YesNo adapter needed
Type LType C
NoAdapter needed

Did you know?

#1

The type L plug is the Italian standard, with three pins in a line.

#2

It comes in two versions: 10A and 16A with different pin spacings.

#3

Italy is the main country using this unique standard.

Safety tips

Check the voltage

Make sure your devices support the local voltage. Use a converter if necessary.

Avoid stacking adapters

Never stack multiple adapters. This increases the risk of overheating and short circuits.

Choose quality

Choose a certified adapter with surge protection to protect your electronic devices.

Adapter vs Converter: what's the difference?

Adapter

Only changes the plug shape. It allows you to plug your device into a differently shaped socket, without modifying the electrical current.

220V → 220V

Converter

Changes the electrical voltage (e.g. 220V → 110V). Required if your devices don't support the destination country's voltage.

220V → 110V

Most modern chargers (phone, laptop) are multi-voltage (100-240V) and only need an adapter.

Travel checklist

Everything about the type L plug

What is a type L plug?

Italian plug with 3 aligned pins

Which countries use type L plugs?

The type L plug is used in 11 countries worldwide, including Chile, Cuba, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Italy. This standard is widespread across multiple regions and it is recommended to check your device compatibility before traveling to these countries.

Which adapter should I buy for a type L plug?

A universal adapter is recommended for type L plugs. It will allow you to plug in your devices in all countries using this standard.

What is the name of a type L plug?

The type L plug is commonly known as "Italian plug".

How to recognize a type L plug?

The type L plug (Italian plug) can be identified by its grounding pin, which provides enhanced electrical safety. It supports a current of 10 / 16A and is used in 11 countries worldwide.

Last updated: February 2026

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