IP11 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP11 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP11 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and vertically dripping water, while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP11, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 1.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP11
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP11
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP11
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP11
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP11
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP11
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP11 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP11
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP11 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP11 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP11
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP11 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP11. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP11 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.