IP03 vs IP08
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP08 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP08 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP08
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP08
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP08
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP08
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP08
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP08)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP03 and IP08 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP08 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.