IP18 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
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)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP27 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP18 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 and IP27 offer comparable overall protection; choose based on the specific protection dimension (dust vs. water) that matters most for your application.