IP24 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP24 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP24 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
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)
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP24
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP24
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP24
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP24
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP24 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP24 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP24. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP24 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.