IP04 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP04
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP04 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP04 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP5X offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP5X for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.