IP57 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP57 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 1). IP57 is rated for dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP57
Limited
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP57
Yes
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP57
Yes
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP57
Yes
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP57 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP57 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP57 and IP17 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IP17. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.