IP68 vs IP39K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP39K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 9K). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP39K provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
IP39K is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP39K
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP39K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP39K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP39K
Yes
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP39K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP39K
Yes
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP39K)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP39K
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP39K provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP39K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP39K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP39K provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP39K. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP39K may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.