IP68 vs IP10
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP10 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 0). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP10 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and no protection.
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.
IP10 provides protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and no protection against water. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 0.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP10
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP10
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP10
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP10
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP10
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP10
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP10)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP10
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP10 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP10
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8), while IP10 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP68 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP10. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP10 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.