IP44 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 1). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
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.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP44 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.