IP20 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP20 and IP5X share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP5X offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP5X for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.