IP16 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP16 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0). IP16 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 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 6.
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)
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP16
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP16
Yes
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP16
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP16
Yes
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP16 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP16 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP16 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP16 and IPX6 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP16 offers higher overall protection than IPX6. Choose IP16 for harsher environments; IPX6 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.