IP33 vs IP26
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP26 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 6). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP26 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP26
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP26
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP26
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP26
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP26)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP26 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.