IP55 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 4). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
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)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP55
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP55 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP55 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP55 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP55 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.