IP37 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP37 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP37 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP37 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.