IP43 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered 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)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43 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 IP43. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.