IP33 vs IP03
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP03 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP03 provides no protection and spraying water (up to 60°).
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP03
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP03
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP03
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP03
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP03
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP03)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP33 and IP03 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.