IP30 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP30
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
Both IP30 and IP6X share the same liquid protection: No Protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP6X offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP6X for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.