IP38 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
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)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP38 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP38 and IP68 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP38. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP38 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.