IP64 vs IPX7
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP64 and IPX7 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP64 is rated for dust-tight and splashing water (all directions), while IPX7 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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).
IPX7 resists temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with solid protection not specified. Common for portable electronics that may be dropped in water.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP64
6 — Dust-Tight
IPX7
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP64
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX7
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP64
Yes
IPX7
No
Water-jet resistant
IP64
No
IPX7
Yes
Submersible
IP64
No
IPX7
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP64
Yes
IPX7
Yes
The exact difference (IP64 vs IPX7)
Solid protection
IP64
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IPX7
Level 0 — No Protection
IP64 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IPX7 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP64 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP64
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IPX7
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP64 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IPX7 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IPX7 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP64 offers higher overall protection than IPX7. Choose IP64 for harsher environments; IPX7 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.