IP60 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP60 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP60 is rated for dust-tight and no protection, while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP60
0 — No Protection
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP60
Yes
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP60
No
IP34
No
Submersible
IP60
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP60
No
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP60 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP60 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP60 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP34 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP34 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP60. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP60 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.