IP65 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 0). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP30
No
Submersible
IP65
No
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP65 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP65 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.