IP06 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 4). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
With IP06, an enclosure receives no protection against solid objects and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
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)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP06
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP06 and IPX4 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP06 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP06 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP06 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP06 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.