IP02 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP02 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 4). IP02 is rated for no protection and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
Engineered to deliver no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP02, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 2.
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)
IP02
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP02
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP02
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP02
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP02
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP02
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP02 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP02
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP02 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP02
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP02 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP44 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP02. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP02 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.