IP55 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 6). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP55
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP55 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP65 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP55 and IP65 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP55. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP55 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.