What Are Plugs and Sockets?

A plug is a moveable connector, usually attached to a cable. A socket is the fixed product, usually attached to a wall or floor, that the plug is inserted into.

What plug types are used in the UK?

In the UK, the most common plug type is the 13-amp three-pin plug, with rectangular pins that fit into a matching three-pin 13-amp socket. There are a number of other socket types too, including 5-amp sockets, usually used for plugging in lighting such as table or floor lamps on a switched or dimmed circuit.

What about USB plugs and sockets?

USB plugs and sockets are increasingly common, used for connecting cables directly to technology for charging rather than plugging in a separate adaptor. The most common types are USB-A, USB-B, and USB-C, with USB-C increasingly becoming the standard for modern devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a plug and a socket?

A plug is a moveable connector attached to a cable. A socket is the fixed fitting, usually on a wall, that the plug is inserted into.

What is a 5-amp socket used for?

A 5-amp socket is a lower-powered socket typically used for lighting, such as table or floor lamps, often controlled by a switch or dimmer on the wall.

Related guide: what does gang mean on a socket or switch?