IP20 vs IP10
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP10 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 1). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP10 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection.
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.
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP10
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP10
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP10
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP10
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP10
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP10)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP20 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP20 and IP10 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP20 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP20 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.