IP20 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP20 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP20 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and no protection, while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP20 protects against contact with a finger and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. It has no water protection and is intended for dry, indoor use such as consumer electronics and IT equipment.
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)
IP20
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP20
0 — No Protection
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP20
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP20
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP20
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP20
No
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP20 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP20
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP20 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP20 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP20
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP20 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX6 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IPX6 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX6 offers higher overall protection than IP20. Choose IPX6 for harsher environments; IP20 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.