IP28 vs IP57
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP57 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP57 provides dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP57 is dust-protected and tolerates temporary immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes. Useful for portable devices that may be dropped in shallow water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP57
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP57
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP57
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP57
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP57)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP57 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP57 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP28 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IP28. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.