IP23 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 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
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP23
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.