IP22 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 0). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
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.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP30
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.