IP17 vs IP20
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP17 and IP20 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 0). IP17 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP20 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP17
No
IP20
No
Water-jet resistant
IP17
Yes
IP20
No
Submersible
IP17
Yes
IP20
No
Outdoor suitable
IP17
Yes
IP20
No
The exact difference (IP17 vs IP20)
Solid protection
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP20 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP17 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7), while IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP17 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.