IP14 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP14 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP14 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Under IEC 60529, IP14 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP14
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP14
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP14
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP14
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP14
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP14 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP14 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP28 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP14 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.