IP25 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP25 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4). IP25 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP25
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP25
Yes
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP25
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP25
Yes
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP25 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP45 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP25 and IP45 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.