IP65 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP65
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP65 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP65 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.