IP33 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 7). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP33 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP33 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX7 offers higher overall protection than IP33. Choose IPX7 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.