IP15 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP25 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP15 and IP25 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP25 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP25 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.