IP53 vs IP57
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP53 and IP57 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 7). IP53 is rated for dust-protected and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP57 provides dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP57 is dust-protected and tolerates temporary immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes. Useful for portable devices that may be dropped in shallow water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP53
Limited
IP57
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP53
No
IP57
Yes
Submersible
IP53
No
IP57
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP53
No
IP57
Yes
The exact difference (IP53 vs IP57)
Solid protection
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP53 and IP57 share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP53 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP57 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP57 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IP53. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IP53 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.