IP28 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP28 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP28 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.