IP68 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger 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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 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
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP68 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP25 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 IP25. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.