IP03 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP28 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.