IP23 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
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)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP23
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP23 and IP33 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.