IP60 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP60 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 4). IP60 is rated for dust-tight and no protection, while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
IP60 is dust-tight with no water protection. Used for indoor equipment in very dusty environments that stays completely dry — dust exclusion without any moisture tolerance.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP60
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP60
0 — No Protection
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP60
Yes
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP60
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP60
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP60
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP60 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP60
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP60 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP60 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP60
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP60 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX4 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4). IPX4 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP60 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP60 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.