IP45 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 0). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP45
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP45 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP5X. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.