IP54 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP54 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP54 is rated for dust-protected and splashing water (all directions), while IP55 provides dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP54 is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and resists splashing water from any direction. A versatile rating for industrial and outdoor-covered equipment in dusty, damp environments.
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)
IP54
5 — Dust-Protected
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP54
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP54
Limited
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP54
No
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP54
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP54
Yes
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP54 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP54
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP54 and IP55 share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP54
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP54 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP55 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP55 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP54. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP54 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.