IP03 vs IP20
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP20 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP20 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection.
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.
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)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP20
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP20
No
Submersible
IP03
No
IP20
No
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP20
No
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP20)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP03 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP03 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP03 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP03 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.