IP44 vs IP24
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP24 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP24 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 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
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP24
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP24
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP24
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP24
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP24)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP44 and IP24 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP24. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP24 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.