IP44 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP44
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 offers higher overall protection than IP5X. Choose IP44 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.