IP13 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP13 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3). IP13 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
The IP13 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
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)
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP13
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP13
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP13
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP13
No
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP13 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP13 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
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Both IP13 and IP33 share the same liquid protection: Spraying Water (up to 60°).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP13. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP13 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.