IP20 vs IP07
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP07 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP07 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP07 is an ingress protection code that ensures no protection against solid objects 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 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP07
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP07
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP07
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP07
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP07
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP07
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP07)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP07
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP07 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP07
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP07 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP07 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP07 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP07 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.