IP56 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP56 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP56 is rated for dust-protected and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP56 is dust-protected and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). Suited to outdoor equipment subjected to heavy rain or hose-directed water.
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)
IP56
5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP56
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP56
Limited
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP56
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP56
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP56
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP56 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP56
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP56 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP56
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP56 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP56. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP56 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.