IP10 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.