IP01 vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP01 and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2). IP01 is rated for no protection and vertically dripping water, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
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.
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)
IP01
0 — No Protection
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP01
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP01
No
IP21
No
Submersible
IP01
No
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP01
No
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP01 vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Both IP01 and IP21 share the same liquid protection: Vertically Dripping Water.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP21 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP21 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.