IP43 vs IP60
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP60 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP60 provides dust-tight and no protection.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP60
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP60
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP60
No
Submersible
IP43
No
IP60
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP60
No
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP60)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP60 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP60 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IP60. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IP60 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.