IP37 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP37 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP37 and IPX7 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP37 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP37 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.