IP33 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 7). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (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
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP27 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.