IP00 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
IP00 offers no protection against solid objects or moisture. It is suitable only for indoor, climate-controlled environments where the equipment is fully enclosed within another protective housing.
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)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP00
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1). IP21 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP21 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP21 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.