IP15 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 6). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
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)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP15 and IP65 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.