IP33 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 5). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP45 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP45 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.