IPX4 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IPX4 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 6). IPX4 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IPX6 resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Suitable for heavy-rain or hose-exposed equipment where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IPX4
0 — No Protection
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IPX4
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IPX4
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IPX4
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IPX4
Yes
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IPX4 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IPX4 and IPX6 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IPX6 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IPX6 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX6 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IPX6 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.