IP33 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (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
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP23
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP33 and IP23 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 IP23. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.