IP68 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP68 and IP38 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP38. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP38 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.