IP46 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP46 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP46 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP46 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 4 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP46
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP46
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP46
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP46
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP46
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP46
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP46 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP46
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP46 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP46 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP46
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP46 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP46 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP46 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.