IP27 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 0). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP5X provides dust-protected 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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP27 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7), while IP5X 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 IP5X. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.