IP44 vs IP60
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP60 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP60 provides dust-tight and no protection.
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.
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP60
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP60
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP60
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP60
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP60
No
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP60)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP60 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP60 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP60. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP60 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.