IP43 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP5X. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.