IP28 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP44
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP28 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.