IP00 vs IP26
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP26 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP26 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP26
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP26
Yes
Submersible
IP00
No
IP26
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP26
Yes
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP26)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP26 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP26 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IP26 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.