IP23 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 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)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP23
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP23 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23 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 IP23. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.