IP44 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 3). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 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
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP34
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP44 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP44 and IP34 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 IP34. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.