IP45 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP45 and IP65 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.