IP04 vs IP16
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP16 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 6). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP16 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP16
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP16
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP16
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP16
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP16)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP16 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP16 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP16 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP16 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP16 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP16 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.