IP10 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP10 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX4 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IPX4 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX4 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IPX4 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.