IP43 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 6). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IPX6 resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Suitable for heavy-rain or hose-exposed equipment where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX6 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IPX6 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP43 offers higher overall protection than IPX6. Choose IP43 for harsher environments; IPX6 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.