IP11 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP11 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP11 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and vertically dripping water, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP11, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 1.
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)
IP11
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP11
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP11
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP11
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP11
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP11
No
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP11 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP11
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP11 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP11
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Both IP11 and IP21 share the same liquid protection: Vertically Dripping Water.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP21 offers higher overall protection than IP11. Choose IP21 for harsher environments; IP11 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.