IP33 vs IP40
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP40 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP40 provides > 1 mm — small wires and no protection.
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.
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP40
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP40
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP40
No
Submersible
IP33
No
IP40
No
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP40
No
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP40)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP40 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP33 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP33 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.