IP21 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP21
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP21 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.