IP20 vs IPX5
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IPX5 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IPX5 provides no protection 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.
IPX5 resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Used where water-jet resistance matters more than dust sealing.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX5
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IPX5
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IPX5
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IPX5
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IPX5
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IPX5
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IPX5)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX5
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX5 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX5
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX5 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IPX5 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX5 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IPX5 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.