IP27 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 3). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
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)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP33
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP27 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.