IP20 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
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 protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP21 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1). IP21 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP21 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP21 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.