IP20 vs IP40
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP40 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP40 provides > 1 mm — small wires and no protection.
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.
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP40
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP40
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP40
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP40
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP40
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP40)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP40 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP20 and IP40 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP40 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP40 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.