IP68 vs IP69K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP69K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 8 vs 9K). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP69K provides dust-tight and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
IP69K is dust-tight and resists high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. The highest IP rating, required for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical washdown environments.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP69K
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP69K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP69K
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP69K
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP69K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP69K
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP69K)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP69K
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP68 and IP69K share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP69K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP69K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP69K provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP69K offers higher overall protection than IP68. Choose IP69K for harsher environments; IP68 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.