IP34 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP34
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP34 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP34 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP6X. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP6X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.