IP33 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX4 provides no protection 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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IPX4 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.