IP24 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP24 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP24 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions), while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP24
No
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP24
No
IP30
No
Submersible
IP24
No
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP24
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP24 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP24 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP24 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP24 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP24 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.