IP53 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP53 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP53 is rated for dust-protected and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP53, it pairs solid level 5 with liquid level 3.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP53
Limited
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP53
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP53
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP53
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP53 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP53 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP53 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP53. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP53 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.