IP30 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
IPX6 resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa) with solid protection not specified. Suitable for heavy-rain or hose-exposed equipment where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP30 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX6 provides "Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)" (level 6). IPX6 is 6 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX6 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IPX6 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.