IP45 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 0). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
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.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP45
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP45 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP6X. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP6X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.