IP20 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP25 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP25 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP25 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP25 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP25 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.