IP00 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP00
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP38 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.