IP28 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP28 and IP38 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP28. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.