IP20 vs IP03
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP03 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP03 provides no protection and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP03
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP03
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP03
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP03
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP03
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP03)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP03 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP03 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP03 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP03 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.