IP40 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
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)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP40 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX7 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IPX7 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX7 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IPX7 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.