IP40 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP43
No
Submersible
IP40
No
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP40 and IP43 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP43 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP43 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.