IP68 vs IP11
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP11 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 1). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP11 provides > 50 mm — back of hand 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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP11, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP11
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP11
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP11
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP11
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP11
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP11
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP11)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP11
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP11 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP11
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP11 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 IP11. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP11 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.