IP68 vs IP35
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP35 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP35 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP35
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP35
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP35
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP35
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP35)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP35 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 IP35. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.