IP20 vs IP24
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP24 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP24 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions).
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.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP24
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP24
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP24
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP24
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP24)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP24 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP24 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP24 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP24 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP24 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.