IP68 vs IP01
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP01 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 1). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP01 provides no protection and vertically dripping water.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
IP01 provides no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP01
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP01
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP01
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP01
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP01
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP01
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP01)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP01
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP01 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP01
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP01 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP68 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP01. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP01 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.