IP33 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP5X. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.