IP04 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP25 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP25 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP25 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP25 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP25 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.