IP68 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP23
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP68 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.