IP64 vs IP66
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IP66 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 6). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IP66 provides dust-tight and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP64 is dust-tight and resists splashing water from any direction. A solid outdoor-covered rating combining complete dust exclusion with splash tolerance, sitting between IP65 (jets) and IP54 (dust-protected).
IP66 is dust-tight and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). A robust outdoor rating for equipment exposed to heavy rain, storms, or directed high-pressure hosing (but not high-pressure washdown).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IP66
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP66
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IP66
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IP66
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IP66
No
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IP66
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IP66)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP66
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP64 and IP66 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP66
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP66 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP66 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP66 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP66 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.