IP18 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 0). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
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)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP18 and IPX8 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.