IP10 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP10 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP10 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection, while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 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.
IPX6 resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Suitable for heavy-rain or hose-exposed equipment where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP10
0 — No Protection
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP10
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP10
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP10
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP10
No
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP10 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP10 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX6 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IPX6 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX6 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IPX6 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.