IP26 vs IP66
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IP66 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP66 provides dust-tight and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IP66 is dust-tight and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). A robust outdoor rating for equipment exposed to heavy rain, storms, or directed high-pressure hosing (but not high-pressure washdown).
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP66
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IP66
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IP66
Yes
Submersible
IP26
No
IP66
No
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IP66
Yes
The exact difference (IP26 vs IP66)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP66
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP66 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP66 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP66
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP26 and IP66 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP66 offers higher overall protection than IP26. Choose IP66 for harsher environments; IP26 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.