IP55 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
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)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP55
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP55 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP55 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP55 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.