IP43 vs IP35
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP35 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 5). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP35 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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 protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP35
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP35
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP35
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP35
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP35)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP43 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP35 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP35 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP35 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP35 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.