IP22 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 7). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP22
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP22 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX7 offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IPX7 for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.