IP34 vs IP63
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP63 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 3). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP63 provides dust-tight and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
The IP63 classification guarantees dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP63
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP63
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP63
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP63
No
Submersible
IP34
No
IP63
No
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP63
No
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP63)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP63
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP63 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP63 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP63
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP63 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP34 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP63 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP63 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.