IP20 vs IP29K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP29K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 9K). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP29K provides > 12.5 mm — finger and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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 IP29K, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP29K
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP29K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP29K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP29K
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP29K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP29K
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP29K)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP29K
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP29K share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP29K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP29K provides "High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets" (level 9). IP29K is 9 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP29K offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP29K for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.