IP29K vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP29K and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 7). IP29K is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
With IP29K, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
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)
IP29K
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP29K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP29K
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP29K
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP29K
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP29K
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP29K vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP29K
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP29K provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP29K is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP29K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP29K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP29K provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP29K offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP29K for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.