IP44 vs IP49K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP49K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 9K). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP49K provides > 1 mm — small wires and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP49K, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP49K
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP49K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP49K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP49K
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP49K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP49K
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP49K)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP49K
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP44 and IP49K share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP49K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP49K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP49K provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP49K offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP49K for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.