IP49K vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP49K and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 4). IP49K is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP49K, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 9K.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP49K
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP49K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP49K
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP49K
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP49K
Yes
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP49K
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP49K vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP49K
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP49K provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP49K is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP49K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP49K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP49K provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP49K offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP49K for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.