IP44 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP58 provides dust-protected 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.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.