IP10 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP10
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP65 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.