IP21 vs IP61
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IP61 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IP61 provides dust-tight and vertically dripping water.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
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)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP61
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP61
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IP61
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IP61
No
Submersible
IP21
No
IP61
No
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IP61
No
The exact difference (IP21 vs IP61)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP61
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP61 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP61 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP61
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Both IP21 and IP61 share the same liquid protection: Vertically Dripping Water.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP61 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP61 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.