IP20 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP34
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP34 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP34 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP34 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.