IP20 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP20 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP18 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.