A 2-pin UK plug is a BS 4573 reversible shaver plug, not the standard UK mains plug, which is the 3-pin Type G.
If you’ve bought a small appliance or travel adapter and seen a “UK plug” with just two round pins, you might wonder whether it fits the wall sockets you know. The answer depends on which standard the plug actually follows. In the UK, the term “2-pin plug” typically refers to the BS 4573 shaver plug—a low-power, non-earthed design used with shaver socket-outlets—not the BS 1363 Type G three-pin mains plug that powers most household devices.
What Is the BS 4573 2-Pin Plug?
The BS 4573 plug is officially a “two-pin reversible plug and shaver socket-outlet,” first published on 19 March 1970 and amended in 1983 and 1988. It has two round pins and is reversible, meaning it can be inserted into the socket either way up. This design is intended for low-power appliances like electric shavers and toothbrushes that connect to dedicated shaver sockets, often found in bathrooms.
Because the plug is not earthed, it’s only suitable for double-insulated equipment that doesn’t require a protective earth connection. You won’t find a BS 4573 plug powering a kettle, a washing machine, or a laptop charger—those all need the larger Type G connection.
How Does It Differ From the Type G / BS 1363 Plug?
The standard UK mains plug is Type G, defined under BS 1363. It has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle: a longer earth pin at the top, with line and neutral pins spaced 22.2 mm apart and fitted with insulated sleeves for safety. Rated at 13 A and 250 V, Type G plugs are fused and grounded, making them suitable for nearly all household appliances that draw mains power.
The two standards serve different purposes:
- BS 4573 (2-pin): two round reversible pins, non-earthed, low-power, used with shaver sockets
- BS 1363 (Type G): three rectangular pins, fused, earthed, rated 13 A, the standard UK mains plug
When a product listing says “UK plug,” it almost always refers to Type G. A US adapter that only accepts Type G won’t make a 2-pin shaver plug fit a normal UK wall outlet—the socket shapes are physically incompatible.
Common Confusions and How to Identify the Right Plug
The most frequent mistake is assuming any “UK plug” works in a UK wall outlet. Many outlets are designed exclusively for BS 1363 Type G, and inserting a BS 4573 shaver plug into one is impossible without an adapter. If you’re buying internationally, a product marked with a 2-pin UK plug is likely meant for shaver sockets only, not general mains use.
To identify which plug you have, check the pins: two round pins mean BS 4573 (shaver); three rectangular pins mean Type G (standard mains). If you’re unsure whether a 2-pin plug suits your equipment, check the appliance’s power requirements—low-power, double-insulated devices are the only safe matches for BS 4573 outlets.
For those planning to use a 2-pin plug with regular UK sockets, you’ll need a dedicated adapter or a product designed for Type G. If you’re comparing options for your setup, our roundup of the best 2-pin plug choices covers tested models that handle both shaver sockets and modern charging needs.
FAQs
Can a 2-pin UK plug be used in any UK socket?
No. A BS 4573 2-pin plug only fits dedicated shaver socket-outlets, not standard Type G wall sockets. The physical shapes differ—shaver sockets accept the two round pins, while regular outlets require three rectangular ones. Trying to force it will damage the plug or socket.
Is a 2-pin UK plug safe for all appliances?
It’s safe only for low-power, double-insulated appliances designed for it, like shavers and toothbrushes. The plug isn’t earthed, so it shouldn’t power anything requiring a protective earth connection. Check the appliance’s rating before use.
Why do some travel adapters include a 2-pin UK option?
Some adapters include the BS 4573 2-pin configuration for use with shaver sockets in UK bathrooms, where Type G outlets may be less accessible. It’s a niche convenience, not a replacement for the standard Type G connection.
References & Sources
- UK Legislation. “The Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994, Regulation 3.” Defines the legal status of approved plug and socket standards.