IP33 vs IP63
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP63 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP63 provides dust-tight and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
The IP63 classification guarantees dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP63
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP63
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP63
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP63
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP63
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP63
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP63)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP63
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP63 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP63 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP63
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP33 and IP63 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP63 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP63 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.