IP11 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP11 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP11 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and vertically dripping water, while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP11
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP11
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP11
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP11
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP11
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP11
No
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP11 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP11
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP11 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP11
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP11 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP11. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP11 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.