IP01 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP01 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP01 is rated for no protection and vertically dripping water, while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP01 provides no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
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)
IP01
0 — No Protection
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP01
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP01
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP01
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP01
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP01 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP01 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.