IP10 vs IP20
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP20 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP20 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection.
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.
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP20
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP20
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP20
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IP20
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP20
No
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP20)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP20 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP10 and IP20 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP20 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP20 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.