IP43 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 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
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP23
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP43 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP43 and IP23 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 IP23. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.