IP67 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP67 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 1). IP67 is rated for dust-tight and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
IP67 is dust-tight and withstands temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The go-to rating for outdoor and rugged devices that may be briefly submerged.
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)
IP67
6 — Dust-Tight
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP67
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP67
Yes
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP67
Yes
IP21
No
Submersible
IP67
Yes
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP67
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP67 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP67
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP67 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP67 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP67
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP67 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP67 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP67 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP67 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.