IP22 vs IP24
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP24 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 2 vs 4). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP24 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions).
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP24
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP24
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP24
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP24
Yes
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP24)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP22 and IP24 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IP24 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP24 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP24 offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IP24 for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.