IP33 vs IP29K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP29K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 9K). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP29K provides > 12.5 mm — finger and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
With IP29K, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP29K
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP29K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP29K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP29K
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP29K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP29K
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP29K)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP29K
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP29K provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP29K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP29K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP29K provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP29K offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP29K for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.