IP08 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°).
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP23
No
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP23 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP08 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.