IP34 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP34
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.