IP20 vs IP66
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP66 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP66 provides dust-tight and powerful water jets (12.5 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.
IP66 is dust-tight and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). A robust outdoor rating for equipment exposed to heavy rain, storms, or directed high-pressure hosing (but not high-pressure washdown).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP66
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP66
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP66
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP66
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP66
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP66)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP66 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP66 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP66
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP66 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IP66 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP66 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP66 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.