IP10 vs IP16
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP16 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP16 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP16
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP16
Yes
Submersible
IP10
No
IP16
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP16
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP16)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP10 and IP16 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP16 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IP16 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP16 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP16 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.