IP12 vs IP22
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP12 and IP22 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP12 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP22 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position., IP12 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 1 with liquid level 2.
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)
IP12
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP12
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP12
No
IP22
No
Water-jet resistant
IP12
No
IP22
No
Submersible
IP12
No
IP22
No
Outdoor suitable
IP12
No
IP22
No
The exact difference (IP12 vs IP22)
Solid protection
IP12
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP12 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP22 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP12
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Both IP12 and IP22 share the same liquid protection: Dripping Water at 15° Tilt.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP12. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP12 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.