IP35 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP35 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 5). IP35 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP55 provides dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP35
No
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP35
Yes
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP35
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP35
Yes
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP35 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP55 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP35 and IP55 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP35. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.