IP13 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP13 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP13 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP13 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP13
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP13
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP13
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP13
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP13
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP13
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP13 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP13
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP13 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP13
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP13 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP13. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP13 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.