IP27 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 4). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP34
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP34 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP27 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.