IP22 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 8). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP22
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.