IP04 vs IP10
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP10 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP10 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection.
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP10
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP10
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP10
No
Submersible
IP04
No
IP10
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP10
No
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP10)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP10 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP04 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP04 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP04 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP04 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.