IP44 vs IP69K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP69K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 9K). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP69K provides dust-tight and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
IP69K is dust-tight and resists high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. The highest IP rating, required for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical washdown environments.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP69K
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP69K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP69K
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP69K
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP69K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP69K
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP69K)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP69K
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP69K provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP69K is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP69K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP69K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP69K provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP69K offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP69K for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.