IP04 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP04 and IPX7 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX7 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IPX7 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.