IP34 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
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)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP34
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP34 and IP44 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.