IP07 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP07 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 1). IP07 is rated for no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
IP07 is an ingress protection code that ensures no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP07
0 — No Protection
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP07
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP07
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP07
Yes
IP21
No
Submersible
IP07
Yes
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP07
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP07 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP07
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP07 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP07
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP07 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP07 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP07 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP07 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.