IP63 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP63 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 4). IP63 is rated for dust-tight and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
The IP63 classification guarantees dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
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)
IP63
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP63
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP63
Yes
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP63
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP63
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP63
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP63 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP63
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP63 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP63 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP63
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP63 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IPX4 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP63 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP63 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.