IP21 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP21
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP21 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.