IP40 vs IP24
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP24 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP24 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions).
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP24
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP24
No
Submersible
IP40
No
IP24
No
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP24
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP24)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP40 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP24 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP24 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP24 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP24 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.