IP20 vs IP62
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP62 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 2). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP62 provides dust-tight and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
Built to withstand dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP62, it pairs solid level 6 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP62
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP62
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP62
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP62
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP62
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP62
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP62)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP62
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP62 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP62 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP62
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP62 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2). IP62 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP62 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP62 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.