IP43 vs IP08
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP08 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP08 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP08
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP08
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP08
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP08
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP08)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP08 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.