IP28 vs IP53
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP53 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP53 provides dust-protected 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.
Built to withstand dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP53, it pairs solid level 5 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP53
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP53
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP53
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP53
No
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP53)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP53 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP53 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP53 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.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP53. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP53 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.