IP20 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP65 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.