IP08 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP43
No
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP08 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.