IP30 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP65 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.