IP44 vs IP64
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP64 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP64 provides dust-tight 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.
IP64 is dust-tight and resists splashing water from any direction. A solid outdoor-covered rating combining complete dust exclusion with splash tolerance, sitting between IP65 (jets) and IP54 (dust-protected).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP64
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP64
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP64
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP64
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP64)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP64 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP64 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP44 and IP64 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP64 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP64 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.