IP21 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP21 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP21 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water, while IPX8 provides no protection 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.
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)
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP21
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP21
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP21
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP21
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP21 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.