IP43 vs IP03
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP03 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP03 provides no protection and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP03
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP03
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP03
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP03
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP03
No
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP03)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP43 and IP03 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.