IP28 vs IP66
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP66 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 6). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP66 provides dust-tight and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IP66 is dust-tight and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). A robust outdoor rating for equipment exposed to heavy rain, storms, or directed high-pressure hosing (but not high-pressure washdown).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP66
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP66
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP66
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP66
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP66
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP66)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP66 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP66 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP66
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP66 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP28 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP66 offers higher overall protection than IP28. Choose IP66 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.