IP28 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
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)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP28 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP28. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.