IP53 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP53 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 5). IP53 is rated for dust-protected and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP55 provides dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
Built to withstand dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP53, it pairs solid level 5 with liquid level 3.
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP53
Limited
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP53
No
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP53
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP53
No
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP53 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP53 and IP55 share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP53 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP55 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP55 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP53. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP53 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.