IP33 vs IP10
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP10 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP10 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection.
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.
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP10
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP10
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP10
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP10
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP10
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP10)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP33 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.