IP21 vs IP22
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IP22 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 1 vs 2). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IP22 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IP22
No
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IP22
No
Submersible
IP21
No
IP22
No
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IP22
No
The exact difference (IP21 vs IP22)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP21 and IP22 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt). IP22 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.