IP44 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP44 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.