IP44 vs IPX5
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IPX5 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IPX5 provides no protection and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IPX5 resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Used where water-jet resistance matters more than dust sealing.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX5
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX5
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IPX5
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IPX5
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IPX5
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IPX5
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IPX5)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX5
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX5 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX5
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IPX5 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IPX5 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IPX5. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IPX5 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.