IP08 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 1). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
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)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP21
No
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP08 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.