IP10 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP33 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.