IP14 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP14 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP14 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions), while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
Under IEC 60529, IP14 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm 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 1 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)
IP14
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP14
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP14
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP14
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP14
Yes
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP14 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP14 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP14 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP14 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP6X offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IP6X for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.