IP16 vs IP26
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP16 and IP26 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP16 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP26 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 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 6.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP16
No
IP26
No
Water-jet resistant
IP16
Yes
IP26
Yes
Submersible
IP16
No
IP26
No
Outdoor suitable
IP16
Yes
IP26
Yes
The exact difference (IP16 vs IP26)
Solid protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP16 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP26 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP16 and IP26 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IP16. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IP16 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.