IP64 vs IP65
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IP65 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IP65 provides dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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).
IP65 is dust-tight and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). It is the most common standard for fully exposed outdoor electronics such as lighting, cameras, and EV chargers.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IP65
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IP65
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IP65
No
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IP65
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IP65)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
Both IP64 and IP65 share the same solid protection: Dust-Tight.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP65 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP64. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP64 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.