IP27 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP27 and IP28 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP27. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP27 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.