IP20 vs IP01
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP01 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP01 provides no protection and vertically dripping water.
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
IP01 provides no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP01
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP01
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP01
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP01
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP01
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP01)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP01 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1). IP01 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP20 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP20 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.