IP26 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP26
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP26 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Both IP26 and IP28 share the same solid protection: > 12.5 mm — Finger.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP26. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP26 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.