IP44 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP27 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.