IP38 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
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)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP38 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP38 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.