IP43 vs IP04
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP04 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP04 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects 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 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP04
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP04
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP04
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP04
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP04
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP04)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP04 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.