IP14 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP14 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP14 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 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
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP14
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP14
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP14
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP14
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP14 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP14 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP14 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.