IP13 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP13 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP13 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
The IP13 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP13
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP13
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP13
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP13
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP13 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP13 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP13 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP13 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP5X offers higher overall protection than IP13. Choose IP5X for harsher environments; IP13 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.