IP20 vs IP61
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP61 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP61 provides dust-tight and vertically dripping water.
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.
IP61 is an ingress protection code that ensures dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP61
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP61
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP61
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP61
No
Submersible
IP20
No
IP61
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP61
No
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP61)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP61
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP61 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP61 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP61
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP61 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1). IP61 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP61 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP61 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.