IPX5 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IPX5 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IPX5 is rated for no protection and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IPX5 resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Used where water-jet resistance matters more than dust sealing.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IPX5
0 — No Protection
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IPX5
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IPX5
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IPX5
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IPX5
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IPX5
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IPX5 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IPX5
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IPX5 and IPX8 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IPX5
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX5 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IPX5. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IPX5 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.