IP04 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP04
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP04 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP04 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP6X offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP6X for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.