IP33 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
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)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP34
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP33 and IP34 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP34 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.