IP10 vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP10
No
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP10 and IP15 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP15 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP15 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP15 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.