IP64 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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).
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)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP64
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP64 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP64 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP64 and IPX4 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP64 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP64 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.