IP44 vs IP02
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP02 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 2). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP02 provides no protection and dripping water at 15° tilt.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Engineered to deliver no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP02, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP02
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP02
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP02
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP02
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP02
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP02
No
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP02)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP02
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP02 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP02
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP02 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt). IP44 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP02. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP02 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.