IP00 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°).
IP00 offers no protection against solid objects or moisture. It is suitable only for indoor, climate-controlled environments where the equipment is fully enclosed within another protective housing.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP23
No
Submersible
IP00
No
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP23 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP23 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP23 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP23 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP23 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.