IP33 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 5). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP25 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP25 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP25 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP25 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.