IP23 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP23
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP23 and IP28 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.