IP61 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP61 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 1 vs 8). IP61 is rated for dust-tight and vertically dripping water, while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP61 is an ingress protection code that ensures dust-tight (no ingress of dust) and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 6 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
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)
IP61
6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP61
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP61
Yes
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP61
No
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP61
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP61
No
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP61 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP61
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP61 and IP68 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP61
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP61 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP61. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP61 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.