IP35 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP35 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 4). IP35 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
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)
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP35
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP35
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP35
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP35
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP35 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP35 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP35 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP35 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP35 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP35 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.