IP68 vs IP53
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP68 and IP53 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP68 is rated for dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP53 provides dust-protected 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.
Built to withstand dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP53, it pairs solid level 5 with liquid level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
IP53
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP53
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP68
Yes
IP53
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP68
Yes
IP53
No
Submersible
IP68
Yes
IP53
No
Outdoor suitable
IP68
Yes
IP53
No
The exact difference (IP68 vs IP53)
Solid protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP53
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP53 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP68 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP53
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP53 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP68 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP53. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP53 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.