IP65 vs IP35
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP65 and IP35 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3). IP65 is rated for dust-tight and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP35 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP65
6 — Dust-Tight
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP65
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP65
Yes
IP35
No
Water-jet resistant
IP65
Yes
IP35
Yes
Submersible
IP65
No
IP35
No
Outdoor suitable
IP65
Yes
IP35
Yes
The exact difference (IP65 vs IP35)
Solid protection
IP65
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP65 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP65 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP65
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP65 and IP35 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 IP35. Choose IP65 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.