IP45 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 4). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP45
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP45 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP45 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.