IP57 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP57 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 4). IP57 is rated for dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
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)
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP57
Limited
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP57
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP57
Yes
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP57
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP57 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP57 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP57 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP57 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.