IP33 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 7). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP33 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP17 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.