IP35 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP35 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP35 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
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)
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP35
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP35
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP35
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP35
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP35 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP35 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP35. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.