IP40 vs IP44
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP44 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP44 provides > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions).
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
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)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP44
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP44
No
Submersible
IP40
No
IP44
No
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP44
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP44)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP40 and IP44 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.