IP04 vs IP26
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP26 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 6). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP26 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP26
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP26
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP26
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP26
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP26)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP26 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP26 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.