IP26 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 3). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
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)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IP33
No
Submersible
IP26
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP26 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP26 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.