IP68 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP43
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP68 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.