IP04 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.