IP28 vs IP54
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP54 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP54 provides dust-protected 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.
IP54 is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and resists splashing water from any direction. A versatile rating for industrial and outdoor-covered equipment in dusty, damp environments.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP54
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP54
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP54
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP54
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP54
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP54
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP54)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP54
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP54 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP54 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP54
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP54 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP28 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP54. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP54 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.