IP40 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP40 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IPX8 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IPX8 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IPX8 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IPX8 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.