IP65 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 4). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP65
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP65 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP65 and IP45 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.