IP18 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP18 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.