IP17 vs IP57
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP17 and IP57 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 5). IP17 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP57 provides dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP57 is dust-protected and tolerates temporary immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes. Useful for portable devices that may be dropped in shallow water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP17
No
IP57
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP17
Yes
IP57
Yes
Submersible
IP17
Yes
IP57
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP17
Yes
IP57
Yes
The exact difference (IP17 vs IP57)
Solid protection
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP57 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP17 and IP57 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IP17. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.