IP34 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP34
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP34 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP34 and IPX4 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.