IP20 vs IP67
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IP67 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IP67 provides dust-tight and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP67 is dust-tight and withstands temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The go-to rating for outdoor and rugged devices that may be briefly submerged.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP67
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IP67
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IP67
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IP67
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IP67
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IP67
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IP67)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP67
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP67 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP67 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IP67
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP67 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP67 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP67 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IP67 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.