IP21 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 4). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP21
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP21 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IPX4 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX4 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IPX4 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.