IP10 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP10
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP10 and IP18 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP18 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.