IP28 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 0). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP30
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP28 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.