IP65 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
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)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP65
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP65 and IP68 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP65. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP65 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.