IP45 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP45 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP45 and IP25 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.