IP03 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP03
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP03 and IPX4 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IPX4 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX4 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IPX4 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.