IP64 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP64 is dust-tight and resists splashing water from any direction. A solid outdoor-covered rating combining complete dust exclusion with splash tolerance, sitting between IP65 (jets) and IP54 (dust-protected).
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP64 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP64 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.