IP20 vs IP60
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP60 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP60 provides dust-tight 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.
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP60
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP60
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP60
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP60
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP60
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP60)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP60 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP20 and IP60 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP60 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP60 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.