IP14 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP14 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP14 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and splashing water (all directions), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP14
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP14
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP14
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP14
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP14
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP14
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP14 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP14
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP14 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP14 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP14
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP14 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP14. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP14 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.