b wrote in
ups.com:
Leaving aside the joining wires/terminal blocks issue, on the subject
of the plugs and sockets, the UK one to me is superior in many ways.
1. fused plugs.
Not really needed, but could be a hazard due to mis-fusing.

FWIW, some lighting (especially holiday lighting) has fused plugs.

2. cord grip in plugs

Good aftermarket or factory moulded plugs have grips.

3. screw terminals in plugs -no wrapping wires.

As I said, good plugs don't have them, and wires can be twisted anti-
clockwise to wrap around screws.

4. ALL receptacles and plugs have earth pin.

That is a plus. As is the shuttered recepticals, the reason for the
earth pin on everything.

5. 3 prong design means a better fit (they don't waggle about at all)

I can't complain there. It is just easier to deal with two prong moulded
plugs, and they don't hold that bad in a decent recepticle.

6. much thicker pins - handle more current, do not bend, and seem to
resist arcing damage better.

In theory they could handle more, but are only limited to 13A by design.
the standard US plug design can do up to 20A.

7. switched sockets

Another plus for the UK (and Aussie) system.
.....etc.

The US /japan one only has the advantage of compact size, personally I
can live with a bigger plug if it means better performance. I couldn't
care less about cosmetic aspects!

just my tuppence' worth. -B.