IP44 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP25 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP25 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.