IP23 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP43
No
Submersible
IP23
No
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP23 and IP43 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.