IP03 vs IP13
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP13 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP13 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and spraying water (up to 60°).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
The IP13 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP13
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP13
No
Submersible
IP03
No
IP13
No
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP13
No
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP13)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP13 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP13 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP03 and IP13 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP13 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP13 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.