IP30 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP30 and IP38 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP38 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.