IP17 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP17 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP17 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
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)
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP17
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP17
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP17
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP17
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP17 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP17 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 and IPX8 offer comparable overall protection; choose based on the specific protection dimension (dust vs. water) that matters most for your application.