IP68 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP68 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP17 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 IP17. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.