IP68 vs IP37
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP37 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP37 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire 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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP37
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP37
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP37
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP37
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP37)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP37 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 IP37. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP37 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.