IP61 vs IPX4
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP61 and IPX4 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 4). IP61 is rated for dust-tight and vertically dripping water, while IPX4 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IPX4 (solid protection not specified) resists splashing water from any direction. A common minimum for bathroom and outdoor-covered appliances where dust sealing is not required.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP61
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP61
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX4
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP61
Yes
IPX4
No
Water-jet resistant
IP61
No
IPX4
No
Submersible
IP61
No
IPX4
No
Outdoor suitable
IP61
No
IPX4
Yes
The exact difference (IP61 vs IPX4)
Solid protection
IP61
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX4
Level 0 — No Protection
IP61 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX4 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP61 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP61
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IPX4
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP61 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IPX4 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IPX4 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP61 offers higher overall protection than IPX4. Choose IP61 for harsher environments; IPX4 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.