IP03 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP03
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP03 and IP33 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.