IP04 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP28 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.