IP25 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP25 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6). IP25 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle 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 5.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP25
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP25
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP25
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP25
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP25 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP25 and IP65 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.