IP28 vs IP63
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP63 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP63 provides dust-tight and spraying water (up to 60°).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
The IP63 classification guarantees dust-tight (no ingress of dust) 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 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP63
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP63
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP63
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP63
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP63
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP63
No
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP63)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP63
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP63 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP63 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP63
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP63 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP28 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP63. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP63 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.