IP23 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP23 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP23 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
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)
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP23
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP23
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP23
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP23
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP23 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP23 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.