IP25 vs IP33
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP25 and IP33 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 3). IP25 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP33 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°).
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP25
No
IP33
No
Water-jet resistant
IP25
Yes
IP33
No
Submersible
IP25
No
IP33
No
Outdoor suitable
IP25
Yes
IP33
No
The exact difference (IP25 vs IP33)
Solid protection
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP33 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP25 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP25 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP25 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP25 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.