IP02 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP02 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 2 vs 8). IP02 is rated for no protection and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Engineered to deliver no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP02, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 2.
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)
IP02
0 — No Protection
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP02
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP02
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP02
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP02
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP02
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP02 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP02
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP02 and IPX8 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP02
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP02 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP02. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP02 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.