IP20 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 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
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP28 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP28 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP28 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.