IP68 vs IP03
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP03 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP03 provides no protection and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP03
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP03
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP03
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP03
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP03
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP03)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.