IP27 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP27. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP27 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.