IP40 vs IPX6
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IPX6 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 6). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IPX6 provides no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
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)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX6
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IPX6
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IPX6
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IPX6
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IPX6
No
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IPX6
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IPX6)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX6
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX6 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP40 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX6
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP40 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 IP40. Choose IPX6 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.