IP27 vs IP60
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP60 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 0). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP60 provides dust-tight 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.
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP60
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP60
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP60
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP60
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP60
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP60)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP60 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
IP27 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7), while IP60 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 IP60. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP60 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.