IP28 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP33
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP28 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.