IP45 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 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
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.