IP21 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 7). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP21
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP21 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX7 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IPX7 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.