IP33 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP33 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP33 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP33 protects against tools and 2.5 mm objects plus spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for indoor equipment subject to light spray or for sheltered outdoor fixtures.
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)
IP33
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP33
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP33
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP33
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP33
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP33
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP33 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP33
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP33 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP33
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP33 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 IP33. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP33 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.