IP58 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP58 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 6). IP58 is rated for dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP58
Limited
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP58
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP58
Yes
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP58
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP58 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP58 and IP68 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP58. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP58 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.