IP30 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP30 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP27 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP27 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.