IP43 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (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
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP43 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.