IP44 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 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.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP65 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.