IP20 vs IP57
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP57 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP57 provides dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP57 is dust-protected and tolerates temporary immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes. Useful for portable devices that may be dropped in shallow water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP57
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP57
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP57
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP57
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP57)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP57 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP57 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP57 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.