IP68 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
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.
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP34
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP68 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.