IP65 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 2). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP65
No
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP65 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP65 and IP25 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP65 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.