IP20 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 3). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP43
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP43 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3). IP43 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.