IP30 vs IP60
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP60 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP60 provides dust-tight and no protection.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP60
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP60
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP60
No
Submersible
IP30
No
IP60
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP60
No
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP60)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP60 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP30 and IP60 share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP60 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP60 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.