IP01 vs IP20
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP01 and IP20 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 0). IP01 is rated for no protection and vertically dripping water, while IP20 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection.
IP01 provides no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP01
0 — No Protection
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP20
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP01
No
IP20
No
Water-jet resistant
IP01
No
IP20
No
Submersible
IP01
No
IP20
No
Outdoor suitable
IP01
No
IP20
No
The exact difference (IP01 vs IP20)
Solid protection
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP01 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1), while IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP01 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP20 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP20 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.