IP58 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP58 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 1). IP58 is rated for dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP58
Limited
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP58
Yes
IP21
No
Submersible
IP58
Yes
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP58
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP58 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP58 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP58 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.