IP20 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP33 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.