IP44 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP44 and IP48 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.