IP44 vs IP14
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP14 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 1). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP14 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions).
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.
Under IEC 60529, IP14 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP14
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP14
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP14
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP14
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP14
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP14)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP14 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP44 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP44 and IP14 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.