IP53 vs IP5X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP53 and IP5X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 0). IP53 is rated for dust-protected and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP5X provides dust-protected and no protection.
Built to withstand dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP53, it pairs solid level 5 with liquid level 3.
IP5X is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) with water protection not specified. Used where dust limitation matters but the equipment is kept dry.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
IP5X
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP53
Limited
IP5X
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP53
No
IP5X
No
Submersible
IP53
No
IP5X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP53
No
IP5X
No
The exact difference (IP53 vs IP5X)
Solid protection
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP5X
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP53 and IP5X share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP5X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP53 provides "Spraying Water (up to 60°)" (level 3), while IP5X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP53 is 3 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP53 offers higher overall protection than IP5X. Choose IP53 for harsher environments; IP5X may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.