IP43 vs IP13
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP13 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 1). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP13 provides > 50 mm — back of hand 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.
The IP13 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (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
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP13
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP13
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP13
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP13
No
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP13)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP13 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP43 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP43 and IP13 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 IP13. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP13 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.