IP64 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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).
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)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP64 and IP68 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.