IP20 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.