IP10 vs IP22
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP22 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 2). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP22 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP22
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP22
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IP22
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP22
No
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP22)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP22 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP22 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.