IP26 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 4). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP26
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP26 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP26 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP26 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.