IP22 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 0). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP22
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP22 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP6X offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IP6X for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.