IP26 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
IPX6 resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Suitable for heavy-rain or hose-exposed equipment where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP26
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP26 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP26 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP26 and IPX6 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IPX6. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IPX6 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.