IP68 vs IP12
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP12 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 2). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP12 provides > 50 mm — back of hand 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.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position., IP12 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 1 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP12
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP12
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP12
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP12
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP12
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP12
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP12)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP12
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP12 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP12
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP12 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 IP12. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP12 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.