IP27 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 3). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP43
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP43 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 IP43. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.