IP22 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 2 vs 1). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
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 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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP22 and IP21 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). 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.