IP40 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP40 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP27 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP27 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.