IP48 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP48 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0). IP48 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP48
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP48
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP48
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP48
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP48 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP48 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP48 and IPX8 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.