IP20 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with 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
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP20 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP17 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP17 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.