IP22 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP22 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 2 vs 8). IP22 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP22 protects against fingers and 12.5 mm objects, plus vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. Common for indoor equipment that may encounter occasional condensation or drips.
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)
IP22
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP22
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP22
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP22
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP22
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP22
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP22 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP22
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP22 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP22 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP22
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP22 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP22. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP22 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.