IP38 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP38 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP38 and IPX8 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.