IP57 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP57 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 0). IP57 is rated for dust-protected and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
IP57 is dust-protected and tolerates temporary immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes. Useful for portable devices that may be dropped in shallow water.
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP57
5 — Dust-Protected
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP57
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP57
Limited
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP57
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP57
Yes
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP57
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP57 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP57
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP57 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP57 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP57
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP57 and IPX7 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP57 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP57 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.