IP08 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP08 and IP38 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP08. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP08 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.