IP20 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP45 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP45 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP45 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.