IP00 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP00
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.