IP22 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 3). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP33 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.