IP10 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 5). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
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.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP10
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP5X provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP5X is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP10 and IP5X share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP5X offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP5X for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.