IP38 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IP44
No
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP38 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP44 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP38 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.