IP48 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP48 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP48 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP48
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP48
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP48
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP48
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP48 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP48 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP48 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.