IP14 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP14 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 3). IP14 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
Under IEC 60529, IP14 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
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)
IP14
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP14
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP14
No
IP33
No
Submersible
IP14
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP14
Yes
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP14 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP14 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
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP14 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP14 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.