IP04 vs IP20
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP20 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP20 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP20
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP20
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP20
No
Submersible
IP04
No
IP20
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP20
No
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP20)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP04 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP04 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP04 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP04 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.