IP20 vs IP22
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP22 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 2). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP22 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP22
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP22
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP22
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP22
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP22)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP22 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP22 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP22 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP22 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.