IP20 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP55 provides dust-protected 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.
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP55 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP55 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP55 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.