IP44 vs IP56
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP56 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 6). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP56 provides dust-protected and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IP56 is dust-protected and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). Suited to outdoor equipment subjected to heavy rain or hose-directed water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP56
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP56
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP56
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP56
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP56
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP56
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP56)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP56
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP56 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP56 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP56
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP56 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP56 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP56 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP56 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.