IP27 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 0). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP30
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP27 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP27 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.