IP20 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
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.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP30
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP20 and IP30 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP30 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP30 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.