IP13 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP13 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP13 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP13
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP13
No
IP34
No
Submersible
IP13
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP13
No
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP13 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP13 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP34 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP13 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP34 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP13. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP13 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.