IP23 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP23
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.