IP03 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
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)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP03 and IPX8 share the same solid protection: No Protection.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.