IP39K vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP39K and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 8). IP39K is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP39K is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP39K
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP39K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP39K
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP39K
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP39K
Yes
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP39K
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP39K vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP39K
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP39K provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP39K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP39K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP39K provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP39K. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP39K may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.