IP68 vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP68 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.