IP33 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with 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
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.