IP37 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 4). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP37 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP37 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP37 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP37 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.