IP22 vs IP12
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP12 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 1). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP12 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position., IP12 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 1 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP12
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP12
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP12
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP12
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP12
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP12
No
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP12)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP12
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP12 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP22 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP12
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Both IP22 and IP12 share the same liquid protection: Dripping Water at 15° Tilt.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP12. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP12 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.