IP33 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP44 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.