IP28 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP28 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP28 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.