IP68 vs IP02
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP02 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 2). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP02 provides no protection and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
Engineered to deliver no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP02, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP02
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP02
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP02
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP02
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP02
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP02
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP02)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP02
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP02 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP02
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP02 handles 0.3 mm/min drip rate (Dripping Water at 15° Tilt). IP68 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP02. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP02 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.