IP27 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with 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
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP27. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP27 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.