IP17 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP17 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP17 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP17
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP17
Yes
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP17
Yes
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP17
Yes
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP17 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP27 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP17 and IP27 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP17. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.