IP64 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP64 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP64 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.