IP33 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP33 and IP38 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.