IP01 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP01 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 4). IP01 is rated for no protection and vertically dripping water, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
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)
IP01
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP01
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP01
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP01
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP01
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP01 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP01 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP44 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.