IP48 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP48 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP48 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP48
No
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP48
Yes
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP48
Yes
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP48
Yes
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP48 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP48 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP48 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.