IP44 vs IP67
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP67 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP67 provides dust-tight and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP67 is dust-tight and withstands temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The go-to rating for outdoor and rugged devices that may be briefly submerged.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP67
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP67
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP67
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP67
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP67
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP67
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP67)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP67
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP67 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP67 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP67
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP67 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP67 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP67 offers higher overall protection than IP44. Choose IP67 for harsher environments; IP44 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.