IP26 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP26 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 7). IP26 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP26
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP26
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP26
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP26
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP26 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP26 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP26 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP26 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.