IP33 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.