IP68 vs IP07
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP07 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP07 provides no protection and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP07 is an ingress protection code that ensures no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP07
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP07
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP07
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP07
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP07
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP07
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP07)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP07
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP07 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP07
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP07 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP68 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP07. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP07 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.