IP20 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP23
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP20 and IP23 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP23 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP23 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP23 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP23 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.