IP45 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP45 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.