IP28 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP28 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP28 and IPX8 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.